Neuromyelitis optica and Wernicke encephalopathy share the similar imagings, any correlations?

Two cases with similar brain imaging findings were reported. Both brain MRIs were characterized by abnormal signal intensities in thalamus, surrounding third ventricle, periaqueductal areas and posteromedial thalami. Through clinical observation and a series of auxiliary examinations, one patient was diagnosed as Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) and the other as neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Although WE and NMO are totally different diseases entity, but similar lesions area aroused hypothesis that potential correlations may exist between these two diseases. Astrocytes may be the target cells connecting these two diseases. Potential benefit of thiamine supplementary therapy is suggested for NMO treatment.