Final answer:
Wernicke's disease is related to chronic alcohol consumption and is indeed a potentially reversible condition if thiamine deficiency is promptly treated. It commonly presents with delirium as part of its symptomatology, and its primary cause is a deficiency of thiamine.
Step-by-step explanation:
Wernicke's disease, also known as Wernicke's encephalopathy, is associated with a range of symptoms and causes that relate to thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. Here are the statements evaluated:
- a. It is associated with long-term alcohol consumption: This is true. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to poor dietary intake or absorption of thiamine, predisposing individuals to Wernicke's disease.
- b. It is potentially reversible: Wernicke's disease can be potentially reversible if thiamine deficiency is promptly recognized and treated.
- c. It involves delirium: One of the symptoms of Wernicke's encephalopathy is indeed delirium, along with other neurological symptoms such as ataxia and ophthalmoplegia.
- d. It is the result of a thiamine deficiency: Absolutely correct. Wernicke's disease is directly caused by a lack of thiamine, which is critical for brain function.
Thiamine deficiency can manifest as different forms of Beri-Beri, with Wernicke's encephalopathy being an acute neurological manifestation often seen in alcoholics