Isotopic cisternography and computerized tomography in chronic alcoholism with neurologic syndromes

20 cases of chronic alcoholism with neurologic syndromes were studied by means of both isotopic cisternography and brain CT scan. In 11 cases (55%) there was total reversal of CSF circulation and in a further 4 cases there was a mixed cisternographic pattern. Brain CT scan showed either cortical or subcortical atrophy or both. The magnitude of these findings seems peculiar to chronic alcoholism. Reduction of atrophy in serial CT scan is possible.