SUPERIOR HEMORRHAGIC POLIOENCEPHALITIS (WERNICKE'S DISEASE) OCCURRING IN AN INFANT—PROBABLY DUE TO THIAMINE DEFICIENCY FROM USE OF A SOYA BEAN PRODUCT

Abstract

A 7½-month-old male infant at necropsy revealed pathologic findings compatible with those of superior hemorrhagic polioencephalitis (Wernicke's disease). A retrospective dietary history indicated that the child had received a soya bean product because of atopic and gastrointestinal allergy; this resulted in a deficient intake of vitamin B1. The symptoms and signs of thiamine deficiency in infants are briefly reviewed. It is recommended that all physicians consider the importance of vitamin supplementation when prescribing restricted or special diets for young infants and children.