...Neuropsychology- Korsakoff Syndrome Case Study Introduction Indicating to Mr C's case study, the patient may have developed Korsakoff syndrome. Korsakoff syndrome is associated with Diencephalic Amnesia which is seen as 'neurological disease'. Patients that are experiencing this condition is highly related to 'heavy alcohol' consumptions over a very long period (Butterworth, 1989). With an alcohol related issue Mr C has clearly been taking alcohol nearly half of his life due to going downhill during some time (Appendix 1), which may have lead to obtaining the syndrome. This is based on biological evidence that heavy alcohol consumption may lead to 'thiamine deficiency' with the brain. Damage occurs in important areas part within the brain, resulting serve short term memory loss where the patient constantly asks the same questions and repeats the same stories (S. Korsakoff). The symptoms of Korsakoff syndrome may appear suddenly within few days. The patients have normal IQs, are alert and attentive, appear motivated, and generally lack other neurological signs of cerebral deficits such as abnormal EEGs. The major sign of Korsakoff syndrome is; memory loss (unable to recall information), difficulty in obtaining new information or learning new skills, change in personality (become unconcerned, lacking of emotional reactions, talkative etc) and confabulation (makeup information they can't remember). researchers .. Korsakoff's syndrome has been studied intensively...
Words: 364 - Pages: 2
...Abstract: This is a case study regarding the effects of chronic alcohol abuse in Patient F43, F referring to the patient’s gender as Female; 43 referring to the age of the patient. Patient F43’s problems with alcohol are further complicated by anorexia nervosa, depression, and bipolar disorder, all of which were known to exist before any problems associated with drinking had developed. As a result of chronic alcohol abuse, Patient F43 is exhibiting signs of alcohol dementia and Korsakoff Syndrome, a brain disorder associated with the thiamine deficiency as a result of long-term heavy drinking. A reliance on primary and secondary evidence from renowned medical and psychological sources will be implemented to direct and assist the patient in understanding her condition as well as steps which should be taken in order to alleviate the symptoms experienced as a result of chronic drinking and nutrient deficiencies. This case study provides a critical review of the effects of alcoholism as traditionally defined within the medical or "disease" model of alcoholism. A detailed case study of memory deficiency is presented. The sequence of events in this case study is used to illustrate the possibilities of side effects of chronic alcohol abuse, namely Korsakoff syndrome. Highlights of the medical model of Korsakoff syndrome are then presented, with particular attention devoted to the key concepts of anterograde and retrograde amnesia. Lastly, suggestions for treatment and...
Words: 304 - Pages: 2
...Abstract: This is a case study regarding the effects of chronic alcohol abuse in Patient F43, F referring to the patient’s gender as Female; 43 referring to the age of the patient. Patient F43’s problems with alcohol are further complicated by anorexia nervosa, depression, and bipolar disorder, all of which were known to exist before any problems associated with drinking had developed. As a result of chronic alcohol abuse, Patient F43 is exhibiting signs of alcohol dementia and Korsakoff Syndrome, a brain disorder associated with the thiamine deficiency as a result of long-term heavy drinking. A reliance on primary and secondary evidence from renowned medical and psychological sources will be implemented to direct and assist the patient in understanding her condition as well as steps which should be taken in order to alleviate the symptoms experienced as a result of chronic drinking and nutrient deficiencies. This case study provides a critical review of the effects of alcoholism as traditionally defined within the medical or "disease" model of alcoholism. A detailed case study of memory deficiency is presented. The sequence of events in this case study is used to illustrate the possibilities of side effects of chronic alcohol abuse, namely Korsakoff syndrome. Highlights of the medical model of Korsakoff syndrome are then presented, with particular attention devoted to the key concepts of anterograde and retrograde amnesia. Lastly, suggestions for treatment and prevention...
Words: 958 - Pages: 4
...BIO483 Exam #4 Review Comprehensive and/or early Weeks Know all conditions that cause splenomegaly All associated diseases with EBV Week 1 Mechanisms of Cellular Adaptation Types of necrosis and pathology where most likely found. Apply the definitions of Atrophy, hypertrophy, hyperplasia, hypoplasia, dysplasia, and metaplasia. Week 2 Pain Throughout Organ Systems General anatomy of kidneys, appendix, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, male and female reproductive organs. Costochondritis vs Angina Pectoris vs Myocardial Infarctions. Rheumatoid arthritis Gout lab findings Week 3 Fluid Balance and Edema Electrolyte imbalances of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Intra and Extra cellular concentrations of sodium and potassium as related to osmotic balance. Know the physical signs/symptoms of electrolyte imbalances including hyper and hypo natremia, kalemia, and calcemia. SIADH lab and imaging findings Diabetes insipidus lab and imaging findings Week 4 Topic 4 Acidosis and Alkalosis Know your acid-bases! Week 5 Topic 5 Cardiovascular Causes of Fatigue Cor-pulmonale, cardiomyopathies Week 6 Topic 6 Thyroid, Adrenal, Liver Fatigue Hashimoto’s thyroiditis vs. DeQuervain vs. nodular goiter vs. secondary hypothyroidism Cirrhosis, Addison disease lab tests and hormone responsible. Is it high or low? Week 7 Topic 7 Bleeding as Indicator of Disease Pathophysiology of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Pathophysiology of Hemophilia Ulcers ...
Words: 1128 - Pages: 5
...Alcoholism; A Biological and Psychological Look Inside PSY350 Prof. Marion Burke March 30, 2014 Abstract The following article is a detailed look at alcohol use disorders and alcoholism. The pages that follow give an inside look at the biological and neurological effects these disorders have on a person. There is also some explanation of treatments and some new research that is being worked on in order to help predict who may be at risk. Alcoholism; A Biological and Psychological Look Inside Alcoholism is a growing problem in today’s society. Every day there are more and more people who are having problems with controlling their drinking or who are admitted to hospitals because of extreme illness caused by alcoholism. There is approximately 15 % of male drinkers and 6% of female drinkers in the United States who will have an alcoholism problem (Sullivan, 2009). Each of these groups has family and friends who are affected by their alcoholism. The link between biology and psychology in relation to alcoholism is a vastly growing interest of study. Neurological research is being done to try and explain the connection and to help create effective treatments. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.;DSM–5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013) gives clinical descriptions of different types of alcohol related disorders. One such description is that of Alcohol use disorder. This is described in the DSM-5 (American Psychiatric Association...
Words: 3993 - Pages: 16
...| MEMORY AND MEMORY RECALL | | | | 5/17/2012 | Abstract Recalling items from memory is not always an easy thing to do. Many times people will fail to write down a phone number or a shopping item because they are sure they will remember. Too often when needing to make that call the number cannot be recalled or they return home from the store and then realize they forgot the item they initially went to the store for in the first place. It has happened to us all. This paper will look at memory, reasons for memory loss, and offer ways to help consolidate and retrieve the information we receive. | Computers and humans both have memory that work in similar ways. Both require information to be input, stored, and retrieved. Computers use Rapid Access Memory, or RAM and Read Only Memory, or ROM. In 1968 Richard Arkinson and Richard Shiffrin developed the stage model of memory. This model has three different memory systems; sensory memory, short term memory, and long term memory [ (Editorial Board, 2011) ]. Sensory memory is a very brief memory of something sensed through one of our five senses that if not passed on to short term memory and is forgotten quite quickly. Short term memory lasts a bit longer than sensory memory but doesn’t have the capacity of sensory memory [ (Course Materials, n.d.) ]. Finally, long term memory is the memory that last longer than sensory memory and short term memory. Episodic memory and semantic memory are two types of...
Words: 1078 - Pages: 5
...FUNCTIONS OF BRAIN PARTS - AMYGDALA: memory, emotion, aggression - HYPOTHALAMUS: basic biological functions (hunger thirst, temperature, sexual arousal, emotion - MEDULLA: vital functions (breathing, heart rate) - CEREBELLUM: coordinated movement, language, thinking - THALAMUS: switching station for sensory info; memory - SPINAL CORD: transmits signals between brain & rest of body CORTICAL HOMUNCULUS (Sensory & Motor) - picture representation of the anatomical divisions of primary motor & primary somatosensory cortex - “distortion” not based on size of body part greater representation = greater sensitivity - areas have to do with motor neurons DORSAL ANTERIOR -------(< ‘ )-------POSTERIOR (ROSTRAL) (CAUDAL) VENTRAL LATERAL -------- < : )8( MEDIAL )~ -------- LATERAL METHODS OF LOCALIZATION - assign specific functions to particular places in the cerebral cortex - LESION STUDIES: any pathologic or traumatic discontinuity of brain tissue - SURGERY: Wada Test (anesthetize one hem), Tumor Removal, Split Brain - INFERENCE STUDIES (talk while balancing broom) - FUNCTIONAL IMAGING - PET (positron emission tomography): track blood flow associated w/ brain activity; used to assess physiology, including glucose & oxygen metabolism, and presence of specific neurotransmitters - SPECT (single photon emission...
Words: 4014 - Pages: 17
...Alzheimer’s disease and Other Cognitive Disorders Reversible and Irreversible Cognitive Disorders Carrie Steckl, Ph.D., edited by Natalie Staats Reiss, Ph.D. Introduction Often, mental health professionals classify cognitive disorders into two broad categories: those that are irreversible (i.e., not curable) and those that are reversible (i.e., curable). Dementias are irreversible, progressive, degenerative disorders that gradually reduce a person's ability to function in everyday life. A person with dementia cannot regain his or her previous level of functioning, even though some symptoms may be managed through treatment. Examples of irreversible dementias include Alzheimer's Disease, and Lewy Body Dementia, On the other hand, the progression of reversible cognitive disorders can be halted by identifying the cause of the symptoms and properly treating the underlying disorder. With appropriate treatment, a person's previous level of functioning can be restored. Examples of reversible cognitive disorders are pseudodementia and delirium, which will be described later. Reversible & Irreversible The types of reversible and irreversible disorders that we discuss is this topic center are classified as "Delirium, Dementia, and Amnestic and Other Cognitive Disorders" in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV; the "gold standard" manual used by mental health professionals to diagnose disorders). However, as dementia is the most...
Words: 711 - Pages: 3
...CAUSES OF DEMENTIA SYNDROME There are many different types of dementia: Alzheimer’s which is usually found in people over the age of 65 (extract from mayo clinic}Although in most cases the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease isn't known, plaques and tangles are often found in the brains of people with Alzheimer's. Plaques are clumps of a protein called beta-amyloid, and tangles are fibrous tangles made up of tau protein. Certain genetic factors also may make it more likely that people will develop Alzheimer's. Vascular dementia which is the second most common form of dementia which is caused by reduced blood flow or blocked blood vessels or even a infection of a heart valve (vascular condition. Lewy body dementia which is caused from abnormal clumps of protein that have been found in the brains of people with Lewy body dementia, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. (Extract from mayo clinic} Frontotemporal dementia (Formally known as picks disease) is caused by break down of the nerve cells in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain which controls behaviours, language, thinking and concentration as well as movement. Korsakoffs syndrome Korsakoff's syndrome is a brain disorder usually associated with heavy alcoholconsumption over a long period. Although Korsakoff's syndrome is not strictly speaking adementia, people with the condition experience loss of short-term memory. This factsheet outlines the causes, symptoms and treatment of the syndrome. This factsheet also...
Words: 2947 - Pages: 12
...Alcohol: The Benefits of Moderate Drinking Drinking alcohol in moderate amounts can have positive influences on physical and mental health. While alcohol is one of the most widely abused substances on the market, it is also one that features certain benefits for drinkers who consume it in safe amounts. For individuals who consume low levels of alcohol, benefits like reduced stress, increased cardiovascular health and decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes offer a wealth of reasons for consumers to drink in moderation. Reduce Stress, Anxiety and Tension Research shows that the consumption of alcohol in moderate amounts can lead to certain psychological benefits. Low levels of alcohol can trigger stress reduction, easy feelings of anxiety and help consumers to reduce tension. In addition, low levels of alcohol consumption can also cause the consumer to feel more pleasant and relaxed. Studies on sleep show that people who drink in moderation get more sleep on average than do those who indulge in excess. These psychological effects of moderate drinking are positive ones that can be beneficial to the consumer. A Longer Life The positive psychological effects of drinking in moderation can be associated with the studies that show moderate drinkers tend to love longer than people who don't drink at all or those who drink in excess. Studies from a number of different countries including China, theUnited States and England indicate that longevity is highest among groups of...
Words: 797 - Pages: 4
...cannot be diagnosed due to memory loss alone. It must be accompanied by two or more interruptions of brain function. Individuals who suffer from a disease that causes dementia undergo a number of changes. Simple daily tasks such as dressing or bathing may also become a problem. Anything can be a cause for dementia, a stroke, a car accident or even another disease. Here, I will compare four most frequent causes of dementia with four least frequent causes. Dementia is not a specific disease. It's an overall term that describes a wide range of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person's ability to perform everyday activities. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60 to 80 percent of cases. Vascular dementia, which occurs after a stroke, is the second most common dementia type. But there are many other conditions that can cause symptoms of dementia, including some that are reversible, such as thyroid problems and vitamin deficiencies. Dementia is often incorrectly referred to as "senility" or "senile dementia," which reflects the formerly widespread but incorrect belief that serious mental decline is a normal part of aging. Dementia is caused by damage to brain cells. This damage interferes with the ability of brain cells to communicate with each other. When brain cells cannot communicate normally, thinking, behavior and feelings can be affected. The brain has many distinct regions, each of which is responsible for different...
Words: 1550 - Pages: 7
...However, it is a dangerous drug. Toxic to humans, ethanol can greatly affect the central nervous system. Of course, there are many factors to how damaging its effects will be. Age, gender, genetic background, and family history are all contributing factors, along with the amount of how often that person drinks. As the amount of alcohol increases, so does the number and strength of impairments. Blood alcohol levels will rise quicker on an empty stomach. Both men and women around the world consume alcohol, but it seems that woman are effected more easily than men. Of course, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a very prevalent issue among alcohol using soon-to-be...
Words: 1075 - Pages: 5
...Suggests that mental illnesses are caused by abnormal brain structure due to genes, development, illness or trauma. • Damage to the structure of the brain can lead to abnormal behaviour. • Once brain damage has caused mental illness there is little to be done to stop it. Examples • Alzheimer- a type of dementia caused by the malformation and loss of cells in a number of areas of the nervous system. • Alcohol and drugs can also damage the brain, which may result in korsakoffs syndrome – prefound impairment of memory most commonly caused by alcohol. Evidence. • Lawrie showed that an average schizophrenic lateral ventricle were 40% bigger than controls. This suggests that brain damage has caused schizophrenia. PARAGRAPH 3 – AO1/2: Explain another cause of abnormality and give supporting evidence. Infection • Bacteria or viruses can give rise to mental illnesses as well as physical illnesses. • This can happen whilst the child is in the womb as well as later on in life. Examples. • 14% of schizophrenia cases may be linked to the exposure to the flu virus in the womb during the first trimester. •...
Words: 833 - Pages: 4
...Montressa Beatty Emergency Procedures Dr. Sam Hakim Alcoholism Define alcohol abuse. Alcohol abuse is when one drinks alcoholic beverages in excess, whether on individual occasions (binge drinking) or as a regular practice. It is said that almost any amount of alcohol use may be legally considered as “alcohol abuse”, although it does depend on the local laws. Define binge drinking. Binge drinking is a seriously dangerous habit or practice of consuming large amounts of alcoholic beverages in a single setting. A person that practices binge drinking is at risk of causing serious harm, including alcohol poisoning. Define alcoholism. Alcoholism is when an individual physically becomes dependant on alcohol to the extent that stopping the use of the alcoholic beverages will bring on withdrawal symptoms. This term may also refer to ingrained drinking habits that cause health problems as well as social problems. The dependence on the alcohol causes many serious side effects on the brain, liver, and other organs of the body. What are the risk factors for developing alcoholism? There are several risk factors for alcoholism such as: * An individual drinking too much on a regular basis for an extended period of time. * Most people who begin drinking at an early age are at a higher risk for developing a dependency for alcohol. * Women are less likely to become dependent on alcohol than men, although women are at a greater risk for developing medical complications...
Words: 1393 - Pages: 6
...Derek is admitted to the emergency department critically unwell. Consider the presenting symptoms as outlined in the social history, video clips and medical records and address the following; a) Provide and interpretation of Derek’s ABGs. Derek’s blood gases are as follows PaO2 80mm/Hg PaCO2 52mm/Hg PH 7.25 HCO3 30 The results show that Derek has respiratory acidosis. According to Porth and Matfin, (2009) respiratory acidosis is a condition was an acid imbalance occurs in the body. During gas exchange, the exchange of gas is impaired and results in excess carbon dioxide (CO2) being absorbed into the blood stream, initiating the formation of an acid, making the blood more acidic (Porth & Matfin, 2009). The PH drops as there is little ventilation of the alveolar, and compensation results in the production of hydro carbon dioxide (HCO2) (Farrell & Dempsey 2005). Respiratory acidosis may be caused by injury to the respiratory centres, diseases of the lungs, blockage of the airway and respiratory disorders (Porth & Matfin, 2009). b.) Provide two possible reasons for the ABG’s based on Derek’s history and presentation. The cause for Respiratory acidosis in Derek could have been caused by a respiratory disorder such as COPD which he has been diagnosed with since 1997, and was asked to cease smoking but up to date he has continued to smoke 20-30 cigarettes per day. Porth and Matfin, (2009) explain that conditions of the respiratory system may cause...
Words: 3306 - Pages: 14
