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[Somatesthesic, auditory and visual evoked potentials in chronic alcoholics]
Rivista Di Neurologia
|March 1, 1984
Summary
This study investigated subclinical nervous system alterations in alcoholics, finding them present in both those with and without clinical polyneuropathy. Vitamin B12 and folic acid levels were also assessed in alcoholic patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Neurology
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Alcoholism is associated with neurological complications.
- Subclinical alterations may precede overt neuropathy.
- Assessing nervous system function in alcohol-dependent individuals is crucial.
Purpose:
- To investigate subclinical alterations in nervous system fibers in alcoholics.
- To compare the prevalence of these alterations in patients with and without clinical polyneuropathy.
- To correlate findings with serum levels of Vitamin B12 and folic acid.
Summary:
- Alcoholic patients underwent electrophysiological testing (somatosensory, auditory, visual potentials) to detect subclinical nervous system damage.
- Subclinical alterations were identified in both groups (with and without clinical polyneuropathy), indicating widespread neurological impact.
- Serum levels of Vitamin B12 and folic acid were measured in the study cohort.
Impact:
- Highlights the subclinical neurological burden in alcoholism.
- Suggests potential utility of electrophysiological assessments for early detection.
- Provides data on the nutritional status (B12, folic acid) in this population.