Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What are the typical symptoms associated with Korsakoff's syndrome?

1. Delusions and hallucinations

2. Amnesia and confabulation

3. Sleep disturbances and paranoia

4. Severe fatigue and apathy

The correct answer is: Amnesia and confabulation

Korsakoff's syndrome is a chronic neurocognitive disorder primarily associated with thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, often linked to alcohol misuse. The hallmark symptoms of this condition include significant amnesia, which can be both retrograde (loss of past memories) and anterograde (difficulty forming new memories). Additionally, individuals with Korsakoff's syndrome frequently exhibit a tendency to confabulate, which is the act of creating false memories or distorted recollections to fill in gaps in memory. This occurs subconsciously, as the individual is unable to recall certain information and thus fabricates details to maintain a sense of continuity in their narrative. The presence of amnesia and confabulation is crucial in diagnosing Korsakoff's syndrome, as these symptoms distinguish it from other types of dementia or cognitive disorders resulting from different etiologies. Understanding this syndrome within the context of alcohol-related brain damage emphasizes the significance of early detection and intervention related to nutritional deficiencies. The other options include symptoms that while they may occur in other mental health disorders, are not typical manifestations of Korsakoff's syndrome. This distinction underscores the specific nature of the cognitive impairments associated with thiamine deficiency, particularly in the context of a history of alcohol misuse