The Question is from neet-zoology , and it was created by the author A SUBRAMANYAM

Question

A chronic alcoholic is diagnosed with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Which neurotransmitter deficiency is MOST directly implicated in the pathogenesis of this condition, and which specific symptom is characteristic of Korsakoff's psychosis?

A SUBRAMANYAM · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome and Neurotransmitter Deficiencies
 **Related Topics**: Thiamine deficiency, Alcoholism, Neurological disorders, Memory impairment, Confabulation
 **Prerequisites**: Understanding of basic neurotransmitter functions and the effects of vitamin deficiencies.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
A chronic alcoholic is diagnosed with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
**Method & Steps**:
1. **Identify the primary cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome:** Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is primarily caused by a severe deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1). This deficiency is often seen in chronic alcoholics due to their poor diet and impaired absorption of nutrients.
2. **Recognize the neurological consequences of thiamine deficiency:** Thiamine plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism in the brain.  Its deficiency leads to impaired energy production in the brain, resulting in neuronal damage, particularly in areas involved in memory and cognitive function.
3. **Identify the characteristic symptom of Korsakoff's psychosis:** Korsakoff's psychosis, a component of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, is characterized by profound amnesia and confabulation (the creation of false memories to fill in memory gaps).
4. **Analyze the options:**
    * Option A: Dopamine deficiency is associated with various neurological and psychiatric conditions, but it's not the primary cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
    * Option B: Serotonin deficiency is related to depression, but not directly to the pathogenesis of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
    * Option C: Thiamine deficiency is the primary cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, and confabulation is a hallmark symptom of Korsakoff's psychosis.
    * Option D: While acetylcholine deficiency can contribute to memory loss, it is not the primary deficiency implicated in Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.

**Result**: Option C is correct because it correctly identifies the primary neurotransmitter deficiency (or rather, vitamin deficiency) and a characteristic symptom of Korsakoff's psychosis.
**Verification**: The information provided is consistent with established medical knowledge regarding Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: Dopamine deficiency is not the primary cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, although it might play a secondary role in some symptoms.
B :x: Serotonin deficiency is not the primary cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
C ✓: Thiamine deficiency is the primary cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, and confabulation is a characteristic symptom of Korsakoff's psychosis.
D :x: Acetylcholine deficiency contributes to memory problems, but thiamine deficiency is the primary cause of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome with other neurological disorders caused by different deficiencies.
  2.Focusing on the memory loss aspect without considering confabulation as a key characteristic of Korsakoff's psychosis.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Remember that Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is directly linked to thiamine deficiency, often seen in chronic alcoholics.
  2.Associate confabulation with Korsakoff's psychosis.

A SUBRAMANYAM · Answer

Dopamine deficiency leading to hallucinations

A SUBRAMANYAM · Answer

Serotonin deficiency leading to depression

A SUBRAMANYAM · Answer

The correct Option is "Thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency leading to confabulation"

A SUBRAMANYAM · Answer

Acetylcholine deficiency leading to memory loss

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