Lecture Notes on Thalamus, Hypothalamus, and Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome

Flashcards covering the main functions and related disorders of the thalamus and hypothalamus, including Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.

Thalamus functions

Receives sensory input (except smell) and passes it to the appropriate primary sensory cortical region, works with the reticular formation to drive brain wave patterns and levels of alertness, acts as a major switchboard.

Thalamus connections

Connects subcortical structures with subcortical structures, the cortex with subcortical structures, and subcortical structures with the cortex. It rarely connects cortical structures with other cortical structures.

Hypothalamus functions

Control of hormones, control of the autonomic nervous system, control of eating, control of drinking & water retention (ADH), control of sexual behavior and gender-related behavior patterns, works with the limbic system to control emotions, and influences memory (mammillary bodies).

Pituitary gland

Master gland controlled by the hypothalamus

ADH (antidiuretic hormone)

Concentrates urine in the kidneys and controls blood pressure; also known as vasopressin.

Oxytocin

AKA "LOVE HORMONE" stimulates orgasm, social bonding, empathy, trust, prosocial behavior (such as kindness and generosity), uterine contractions, and milk release

Homeostasis

An internal physiological balance primarily maintained by the ANS & hormones (both of which are largely controlled by the hypothalamus).

Mammillary Bodies

Part of the hypothalamus and limbic system; influences memory.

Wernicke's Encephalopathy

Initial effects of Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) deficiency, leading to confusion, eye movement difficulties (nystagmus, double vision, paralyzed eye muscle), and ataxia.

Korsakoff's Psychosis

Effects of long-term alcoholism, leading to severe anterograde amnesia, some retrograde amnesia, and confabulation.

Confabulation

The production of false memories without the intent to deceive.

Provoked Confabulation

Filling in a memory gap in response to a question.

Spontaneous Confabulation

Fabricated memories emerge without prompting.

Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome

Disorder resulting from Vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency, commonly associated with long-term alcohol use. Includes Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff’s psychosis.

Vitamin B1 Deficiency Causes

Poor diet, impaired absorption, impaired utilization, increased excretion, and liver damage, all often associated with heavy alcohol use.

Ataxia

Poor coordination and unsteady gait (manner of walking); symptom of Wernicke's encephalopathy and can result from cerebellum atrophy due to alcohol use.

Korsakoff’s syndrome brain changes

Atrophy of the mammillary bodies, atrophy of the thalamus, atrophy of the frontal lobes.

Alcohol related brain changes

Atrophy of the cerebellum (ataxia), atrophy of the hippocampus, and atrophy of the frontal lobes