Medical Health Encyclopedia

Beriberi

In addition, there is a rare condition known as genetic beriberi. This is an inherited condition in which affected people lose the ability to absorb thiamine from foods. This can happen slowly over time and manifest as an adult. Since beriberi may not be considered in nonalcoholics, this diagnosis is often missed.

Nervous system symptoms are caused by the degeneration of nerve fibers and their insulation (myelin sheath). Heart failure is the most common cause of death in people with beriberi.

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