This article reviews Marchafava-Bignami disease symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
The chronic form of MBD is less common but generally includes mild dementia.
However, this symptom is often correlated with conditions other than MBD.
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The erosion damages the nerves and eventually leads to nerve cell death andnecrosisof the corpus callosum.
This condition is primarily associated with extreme alcohol consumption.
However, it has also been observed in patients with severemalnutrition.
MBD is thought to result from a deficiency inthiamine, a B vitamin.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing MBD requiresmagnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
An MRI is a noninvasive diagnostic test that uses radiofrequency and magnets to produce images inside the body.
MRIs are commonly used for patients who present with neurological symptoms to help establish a diagnosis.
MBD is impossible to diagnose without an MRI.
Recovery also includes neurological and psychological examinations and follow-up MRIs.
Stopping Alcohol Use
People with MBD should stop drinking alcohol immediately.
Outlook
The outlook for patients with MBD is highly variable.
Generally speaking, the outlook is more positive with an early diagnosis and prompt treatment.
However, this can also vary from person to person.
Some patients survive for years with symptoms of MBD and then deteriorate suddenly.
MBD is most commonly seen in people with severe alcohol use disorder or in people with severe malnourishment.
MBD is associated with several symptoms such as paranoia, psychosis, seizures, and dementia.
Midler symptoms may include difficulty walking, talking, depression, aggression, and decreased consciousness.
MRIs are the only way to establish a diagnosis of MBD.
Intravenous thiamine is often given to treat patients with MBD.
Recovery also includes neurological and psychological examinations and follow-up MRIs.
Fortunately, with early detection and treatment, many patients with MBD have a favorable prognosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Marchiafava-Bignami disease is extremely rare.
Up-to-date prevalence figures are limited, but a 2001 case study found a total of just 250 reported cases.
This condition is primarily associated with extreme alcohol consumption.
However, it has also been observed in patients with severe malnutrition.
MBD is thought the result from a thiamine deficiency.
MBD symptoms can vary per patient.
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2001;8(3):269-72. doi:10.1046/j.1468-1331.2001.00212.x
