Which form of thiamin deficiency is associated with edema and cardiovascular symptoms?

• A. Wet beriberi
• B. Dry beriberi
• C. Wernicke encephalopathy
• D. Korsakoff syndrome

Answer: (A)

Wet beriberi is the form of thiamin deficiency that produces edema and cardiovascular symptoms. Thiamine is essential for energy production in heart and vascular tissues; without it, ATP generation falters, leading to weakened cardiac function and fluid overload manifested as edema and signs of congestive heart failure. In contrast, dry beriberi involves peripheral neuropathy and muscle wasting without edema, while Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome are neuropsychological conditions with ocular/ataxia/confusion and memory impairment, respectively. Hence, edema and cardiovascular involvement point to wet beriberi.