Illicit alcohol consumption and neuropathy - A preliminary study in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Aims: To compare the effects on peripheral and autonomic nerve functions of Sri Lankan illicitly distilled alcohol consumption versus legal spirit consumption. Methods: Peripheral nerve conduction and autonomic nerve functions were assessed in 40 healthy control subjects and two groups of chronic heavy drinkers: 41 illicit spirit drinkers and 17 legal spirit drinkers. Results: Lower-limb motor and sensory nerve conduction parameters were affected in both groups of alcoholics. When compared with controls, in illicit spirit drinkers the mean heart rate indexes of all parasympathetic tests were lower while in legal spirit drinkers the heart rate response to standing was affected. There were no differences in the results of the above tests when the two groups of heavy drinkers were compared. Conclusions: Though chronic alcoholism results in peripheral and autonomic nerve damage, the damage caused by consumption of illicitly distilled spirit is not worse than the damage caused by consumption of legal spirits. © The Author 2008. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Medical Council on Alcohol.