In a 47-year-old man with chronic alcohol dependence who presents with respiratory failure, confusion, generalized weakness, and a CT scan showing a hypodense lesion in the medial pons, what is the most likely diagnosis?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: February 14, 2026View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Related Questions

What are the diagnostic criteria and treatment options for a patient with suspected Wernicke's (Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome) encephalopathy, associated with chronic alcohol abuse?
What is the prevalence of Wernicke encephalopathy and how to differentiate it from other causes of altered sensorium in patients with chronic liver disease, particularly those with a history of alcohol abuse?
What is the best treatment approach for a patient with a history of chronic alcoholism and suspected liver damage?
What is the treatment for a 37-year-old man with a history of chronic alcoholism (alcohol use disorder), presenting with altered mental status, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hypotension (low blood pressure), and bilateral crepitations (crackles) on lung exam, after 2 days of alcohol consumption and no food intake?
What is the level of intoxication associated with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 86 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)?
In a patient with known spinal metastasis who develops rapidly progressive thoracic paraparesis and fecal incontinence despite high‑dose glucocorticoids, what is the most appropriate initial management?
In an 84‑year‑old man with Parkinson disease responsive to low‑dose carbidopa/levodopa who can perform daily activities but has difficulty mastering new violin pieces, which function is most likely impaired: episodic memory, working memory, procedural memory, semantic memory, perceptual‑motor function, or balance?
What is the appropriate management for a patient with iron deficiency anemia and esophagitis?
What are the indications, dosing regimen, contraindications, and adverse effects of nalbuphine for moderate to severe acute pain?
Can a patient who finished a Z‑Pack (azithromycin) yesterday safely start bromphed (brompheniramine/phenylephrine) today?
How does a fatty meal consumed before a lipid panel affect total cholesterol levels?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.