True statement about Korsakoff’s psychosis is
**Core Concept:** Korsakoff's psychosis is a condition associated with thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, typically seen in alcoholics. It results from the disruption of the cerebral function leading to memory impairment and cognitive deficits.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Korsakoff's psychosis is a manifestation of a deficiency of thiamine, a vitamin essential for carbohydrate, protein, and fat utilization in the Krebs cycle. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the blood-brain barrier and supporting neuronal function, particularly in the hippocampus. Thiamine deficiency can occur due to malabsorption, excessive alcohol consumption, or poor nutrition.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Korsakoff's psychosis is caused by vitamin A deficiency (retinol) - This is incorrect because vitamin A deficiency does not lead to memory impairment and cognitive deficits.
B. Korsakoff's psychosis is related to vitamin D deficiency - This is incorrect because vitamin D deficiency primarily affects bone health and calcium homeostasis.
C. Korsakoff's psychosis is associated with vitamin E deficiency - Vitamin E deficiency typically results in muscle weakness and neuropathy, not cognitive dysfunction.
D. Korsakoff's psychosis is caused by a lack of folic acid - Folic acid deficiency primarily affects DNA synthesis and is not directly linked to memory impairment and cognitive deficits.
**Clinical Pearl:** Thiamine deficiency can be prevented by maintaining a balanced diet rich in thiamine (e.g., whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seafood) and ensuring proper absorption through a healthy gut flora. Early recognition and intervention with thiamine supplementation can prevent irreversible neurological damage in Korsakoff's psychosis.