WERKICKE'S ENCEPHALOPATHY – AN UNDERDIAGNOSED SYNDROM

Abstract

Objective: through the case report of an alcohol-dependent patient who develops Wernicke's Encephalopathy (WE) with prolonged symptoms, the authors intend to discuss general aspects of the syndrome. Case Description: this is an elderly, alcohol-dependent patient who develops a case of prolonged WE, referred to the Psychosocial Care Center (CAPS) with a misdiagnosis of schizophrenia. The authors discuss general aspects of the syndrome, diagnosis, treatment, and the importance of an accurate diagnosis for initiating effective treatment, calling attention to the issue of underdiagnosis and its severe consequences. Conclusion: despite its clinical importance, it is concluded that WE is still a poorly understood and underdiagnosed occurrence, bringing potentially harmful consequences to patients' health.