A longitudinal study on Association of Alcohol-Induced Liver Dysfunction with Neurological Consequences and Clinical Implications.

PURPOSE: Alcoholism is a significant global public health issue associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Chronic alcoholic liver disease (CLD) not only impacts hepatic function but also contributes to neurological complications. This study aims to explore the correlation between the amount and duration of alcohol consumption and the neurological manifestations in patients with CLD.

METHODS

The study included 110 participants with a history of alcohol consumption for at least five years and clinical evidence of CLD. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, clinical examinations, and medical records. Alcohol consumption was quantified in standard units, and liver function was assessed through laboratory and ultrasound findings.

RESULTS

The study included 110 participants aged 2284 years (mean age: 41.5 ± 11.9 years), with the majority in the 41-50 age group (33.6%). Males comprised 91.8% of the participants. Peripheral neuropathy was the most prevalent neurological manifestation, affecting 84.5% of participants. Patients with neurological manifestations had consumed alcohol for a significantly longer duration (13.9 ± 6.1 years) compared to those without (9.6 ± 4.6 years, p < 0.05). Liver function tests revealed elevated total bilirubin (median: 4.2 mg/dl), AST (median: 89 U/L), ALT, and ALP in 95.5% and 87.3% of cases, respectively. Hypoalbuminemia (<3.5 g/dl) and low globulin levels (<2.5 g/dl) were observed in 99.1% and all participants, respectively. Ultrasound findings showed chronic parenchymal liver changes in 60% of participants, fatty liver in 40%, and decompensated chronic liver disease in 40.9%. A strong positive correlation was found between the amount and duration of alcohol consumption (r = 0.728, p = <<0.001). The study found no significant gender differences in the prevalence of neurological manifestations (p = 0.627).

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to mitigate the neurological burden in patients with chronic alcoholic liver disease.