Wernicke Encephalopathy Associated with Crohn’s Disease

Abstract

Poorly controlled Crohn’s disease is associated with several complications, including malabsorption of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, and vitamin B1 (thiamine). Thiamine, among other vitamins, plays a crucial role in Adenosine Triphosphate formation as well as nerve propagation. Thiamine deficiency initially manifests as wet or dry beriberi but may lead to the devastating Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome. In this report, we present a case of full-blown Wernicke encephalopathy associated with uncontrolled Crohn’s disease. An 18-year-old young man was admitted with a chief complaint of hematemesis for 2 weeks before admission. He was previously diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in the past year, with constipation as the predominant symptom, and has been taking mesalazine 500 mg twice daily. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy re-evaluation showed a worsening picture of Crohn’s disease pangastritis. The patient experienced swelling in both legs, the scrotum, and the upper extremities during hospital admission. On day 14 of hospitalization, the patient fell into a state of confusion with visual and auditory hallucinations, ophthalmoplegia, and ataxia. A Brain MRI showed a typical picture of Wernicke encephalopathy. Intravenous thiamine was administered, and the patient regained consciousness. His clinical symptoms improved every day until he was discharged. Uncontrolled Crohn’s disease may have several complications that clinicians need to be aware of, including thiamine deficiency. Wernicke encephalopathy shows a devastating clinical picture, but with thiamine therapy, it may resolve before further deterioration leads to irreversible Korsakoff syndrome.