Neurológia pre prax 4/2010
Chronic alcohol Intoxication
The author describes a case of 50-year-old woman, with no previous health problems, with three-year secret drinking of alcohol. The patient was admitted as an emergency with signs and symptoms of developed Wernicke encephalopathy, cerebellar degeneration and severe alcoholic polyneuropathy, all as a result of chronic alcoholism. Diagnosis is supported by laboratory, electrophysiological examinations and MRI. Patient is treated by substitution treatment and rehabilitation. The mental changes slowly and partially improved. Self-care and ability of independent living developed. Though long term rehabilitation a severe gait disturbace remained.
Keywords: alcohol, Wernicke encephalopathy, cerebellar degeneration, alcoholic polyneuropathy.
