The localization of memory.

MRI showed severe lesions, thought to be specific for the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, in an alcohol dependent patient with an excellent memory. The morphological abnormalities thought to be typical of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome might be features of chronic alcoholism and malnutrition. This contention has important implications for the localization of memory functions. Recent literature on the anatomical basis and mechanism of memory is reviewed. Memory probably resides in multifocal neural networks rather than in specific anatomical sites.