Prognosis vs. life expectancy
The life expectancy of those affected is not limited by the Korsakow syndrome itself. However, if the development of the disease is due to excessive alcohol consumption, a limited prognosis must often be given. This is mainly due to the long-term damage caused by alcohol consumption, such as liver damage.
However, if the course of Wernicke’s encephalopathy can be detected early and the consumption of alcohol can be significantly restricted, the prognosis can be significantly better than in the final stage of the disease. Since Korsakow’s syndrome is based on structural damage to the brain substance, a causal cure for the disease is unfortunately impossible. By starting therapy early, in the form of vitamin B1 administration, a significant improvement in cognitive functions can be achieved in some cases, but a complete cure of the disease is not expected. The aim of treatment of Korsakow’s syndrome is therefore not to cure the disease, but rather to enable the patient to lead an independent everyday life by strengthening the resources still available to him.
