Hyperemesis Gravidarum, Wernicke’s Encephalopathy and Korsakoff Syndrome Looked through the Lens of Three Cases, Paper II

Objective: Pregnancy a normal physiological condition is worsened by morning sickness, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, hyperemesis gravidarum, Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome in vulnerable women with gestation. This report of three cases described hyperemesis gravidarum, Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome in the worsening pregnancies.

Methods: Prospective collection of data concerning three pregnant patients seen in Dubai Health Care City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Results: All three patients were admitted to the hospital with manifestations of HG and WE and one of them showed additional features of Korsakoff syndrome. One patient developed intractable hyponatremia and central pontine myelinolysis. Two patients developed abortion while one patient's pregnancy ended with successful delivery with living infant. All patients were managed with thiamine, antiemetics, parenteral fluids and electrolytes and one patients required steroid therapy.

Conclusion: The findings of these cases are compatible with international literature on HG and its sequential syndromes. This study may enhance awareness of HG, WE and KS and also fill the knowledge gap of professionals providing services to women with worsening health during pregnancy in Arabian Gulf countries.