Sudden vision loss in pregnancy: Wernicke's encephalopathy in a patient with hyperemesis gravidarum

Soundhar M. Subramanian, Teena Mariet Mendonca*, Shreya K Srinivas, Gladys Reshma Rodrigues

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Wernicke's encephalopathy, the acute phase of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, is characterised as a triad of altered mental status, ocular signs and ataxia. Our patient presented with hyperemesis gravidarum, which is a rare aetiology of Wernicke's encephalopathy. The patient did not have any oculomotor abnormalities, which are more common and classically described in Wernicke's triad. The sudden visual loss in both eyes can be attributed to acute optic neuropathy. Our case highlights a unique ophthalmic presentation with retinal haemorrhages and optic disc oedema as unusual manifestations of Wernicke's encephalopathy. The dramatic and complete reversal of visual symptoms within 48 hours after starting parenteral thiamine retrospectively supports the diagnosis.

Original languageEnglish
JournalBMJ Case Reports
Volume17
Issue number12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15-12-2024

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Medicine

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