P.046 Review of the management of Wernicke encephalopathy in pediatrics

Abstract

Background: Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is a neurological emergency defined by acute encephalopathy, oculomotor dysfunction, and ataxia. Pediatric cases of WE are underdiagnosed despite having a similar incidence to adults. There are no available treatment guidelines for pediatric WE. Prompt treatment with thiamine can prevent devastating consequences. Methods: A rapid review of the literature of the past 20 years with selected relevant older articles was conducted for the research question “How does child and adolescent thiamine therapy management for Wernicke Encephalopathy compare to adult guidelines?” All articles reporting the investigation, management and treatment of Wernicke encephalopathy – both non alcohol related and alcohol-related pediatric cases – were included. Articles not reporting clinical outcomes were excluded. Results: Eleven case studies including one available review article, met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. An algorithm was created for the organization of published reports of the management of WE for children and adolescents. Key considerations were included for the prevention, identification, acute and ongoing management of patients with WE. Conclusions: The recognition of risk factors for thiamine deficiency and symptoms of acute WE should prompt immediate treatment with thiamine – as a routine and safe therapy in the pediatric population.