Which condition is characterized by confabulation and memory issues, usually associated with prolonged alcohol abuse?

Korsakoff syndrome is a chronic neurocognitive disorder that arises primarily due to thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, often a consequence of prolonged alcohol abuse. Individuals with this syndrome exhibit significant memory issues, particularly in the formation of new memories and recalling recent events. Confabulation, which is the unintentional fabrication of memories to fill in gaps, is a hallmark symptom of Korsakoff syndrome. Patients may not be aware that they are not providing accurate information, as their brain attempts to create a narrative to make sense of their memory deficits.

The relationship between thiamine deficiency and alcohol consumption is particularly critical, as excessive alcohol intake often leads to poor nutritional habits, further exacerbating the risk of developing Korsakoff syndrome. Recognizing the distinct features of this condition, including the confabulation, differentiates it from other issues related to alcohol use, such as alcohol use disorder or Wernicke's encephalopathy, the latter of which primarily presents with acute neurological symptoms rather than the chronic cognitive impairments characteristic of Korsakoff syndrome.