WERNICKE'S ENCEPHALOPATHY AS A COMPLICATION OF THIAMINE DEFICIENCY IN A PATIENT FOLLOWING BARIATRIC SURGERY

Damian Ujazda; Oliwia Dominiak; Krzysztof Nadgrodkiewicz

doi:10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5101

Authors

Damian Ujazda Casimir Pulaski University of Radom, Radom, Poland https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5888-1144
Oliwia Dominiak Casimir Pulaski University of Radom, Radom, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0000-1629-5534
Krzysztof Nadgrodkiewicz Casimir Pulaski University of Radom, Radom, Poland

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5101

Keywords:

Wernicke's Encephalopathy, Thiamine, Bariatric Surgery

Abstract

Purpose: Wernicke's encephalopathy is a severe and life-threatening condition resulting from thiamine deficiency. Among its characteristic neurological symptoms are ataxia, ophthalmoplegia, and altered mental status. This article aims to present Wernicke's encephalopathy as a serious neurological disease, describe its clinical manifestations, diagnostic approach, discuss effective treatment, and emphasize the importance of monitoring vitamin and micronutrient levels in bariatric surgery patients.

Case description: A case of a 29-year-old female patient was presented, showing symptoms of Wernicke's encephalopathy after bariatric surgery. An MRI scan revealed brain changes consistent with Wernicke's encephalopathy. Serum thiamine and retinol levels were markedly reduced. The patient underwent treatment with thiamine and was additionally administered other supplements and medications.

Comment: This case underscores the significance of monitoring vitamin and micronutrient levels in bariatric surgery patients to prevent serious neurological complications. Thiamine replacement therapy was effective in resolving the patient's neurological symptoms.

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