Korsakova

Korsakova refers to Korsakov's syndrome, also known as Korsakoff's psychosis. It is a neurological disorder characterized by severe memory impairment, particularly the inability to form new memories (anterograde amnesia). Individuals with Korsakova syndrome often also experience confabulation, a tendency to fabricate memories to fill in gaps in their recollection.

This condition is primarily caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1), most commonly associated with chronic alcoholism. Thiamine deficiency leads to damage in specific areas of the brain, including the thalamus and hypothalamus. Wernicke's encephalopathy, an acute neurological condition caused by severe thiamine deficiency, often precedes Korsakova syndrome. If untreated, Wernicke's encephalopathy can progress to Korsakova syndrome.

Symptoms include profound anterograde amnesia, retrograde amnesia (difficulty recalling past events), and confabulation. Patients may appear disoriented and have difficulty with tasks requiring sequential steps. While the memory deficits can be severe and often irreversible, some improvement may be seen with prompt thiamine treatment and abstinence from alcohol. However, complete recovery is rare, and many individuals require long-term care.