Which symptom is associated with thiamine deficiency?

Which symptom is associated with thiamine deficiency?

• A. Hypotension
• B. Wernicke encephalopathy
• C. Erythema nodosum
• D. Elevated glucose

Answer: (B)

Thiamine is a crucial cofactor for enzymes that help brain cells generate energy from glucose. When thiamine is lacking, brain energy production falters, leading to Wernicke encephalopathy, an acute neuropsychiatric condition. This syndrome is most recognizably linked to thiamine deficiency and is characterized by symptoms such as eye movement abnormalities, gait ataxia, and confusion (the classic triad, though not all may be present). Among the options, Wernicke encephalopathy best represents a symptom associated with thiamine deficiency. The other choices—hypotension, erythema nodosum, and elevated glucose—do not reflect this specific neurological manifestation. In clinical practice, recognizing this association is important because timely thiamine administration can prevent progression to more lasting complications.