Ultrastructural morphogenesis of mitochondria in alcoholic liver

Electron microscopic studies of 53 diagnostic liver biopsies from 23 patients were done. Ultrastructural study revealed most striking alteration to be in the mitochondria such as pleomorphism in shape and size, especially giant mitochondria with disorganization, crystalline inclusions and calcium-like electron dense bodies. These ultrastructural changes might have been induced by specific biochemical abnormality in alcohol bearing condition. Diagnostic use of electron microscopy will be useful in detecting alcoholic injury in alcoholic patient who fails to demonstrate any discernible laboratory and light microscopic abnormalities.