[A critical analysis of experimental models of alcoholic cardiomyopathy].

Numerous experimental data on alcoholic cardiomyopathy were reviewed and classified basing on the mode of alcohol taking: 1) voluntary alcoholization; 2) semivoluntary alcoholization; 3) forced introduction of alcohol. The advantages and shortcomings of the methods in similating alcoholic cardiomyopathy were assessed. Efforts were made to identify the underlying pathogenetic factors of the disease. The most perfect simulation was achieved in liquid alcohol diet (semivoluntary model) combined with inhibition of the defence enzymes of the myocardium, for instance, inhibition of catalase activity. Alcoholic cardiomyopathy is shown to develop more rapidly in high doses of ethanol and long-lasting alcoholization.