Dry beriberi
Dry beriberi is a clinical form of beriberi caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. [1] It predominantly causes symmetric peripheral neuropathy due to thiamine deficiency. [1]
Clinical features
Dry beriberi is characterized by peripheral neuropathy with neurologic symptoms and signs. [1] These manifestations can include motor and sensory deficits, diminished reflexes, muscle weakness, and related symptoms such as malaise. [1][2]
Relationship to “wet” beriberi
Beriberi classically presents in two forms: dry beriberi and wet beriberi. [3] Wet beriberi is characterized by cardiovascular involvement such as high-output heart failure. [1][3]
Typical underlying cause
Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency is the nutritional cause of beriberi. [3] Dry beriberi is therefore the neuropathic presentation within this thiamine-deficiency spectrum. [1][3]
Sources cited
Dry beriberi is defined as peripheral neurologic deficits due to thiamine deficiency. [4]