Acute Reversible Blindness in a Patient with Wernicke’s Encephalopathy

Vasant Raman1* and Roland Ling2

1Royal Eye Infirmary (Level 3), University Hospitals of Plymouth, UK
2West of England Eye Unit, Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital Foundation Trust, UK

^*Correspondance to: Vasant Raman 

 PDF  Full Text DOI: 10.25107/2474-1647.2709

Abstract

The typical triad of Wernicke’s disease includes ataxia, ocular signs and a confusional state. We present a case of Wernicke’s encephalopathy, presenting with acute loss of vision. There are many causes of Wernicke’s disease. Nevertheless, alcohol toxicity continues to be the main etiological agent. Commonly consumed alcohol (ethanol) is not known to cause acute blindness. Whereas methylated spirit (Methanol) can cause acute loss of vision. This can be consumed accidentally or intentionally with disastrous consequences. Patients with alcohol dependence, presenting with Wernicke's disease, the possibility of methanol poisoning needs to be considered and excluded, among the important differential diagnosis. Prompt treatment in our patient completely reversed the blindness.

Keywords

Wernicke’s encephalopathy; Blindness; Thiamine deficiency

Cite the article

Raman V, Ling R. Acute Reversible Blindness in a Patient with Wernicke’s Encephalopathy. Clin Surg. 2020; 5: 2709..