Electrolyte Content of the Brain in Alcoholism

摘要: Brains from the cadavers of 25 individuals reported to coroner as having suffered alcoholism were analysed for sodium, potassium, chloride, DNA and water, results compared with those a previous study depressed control subjects. The 9 alcoholics died by suicide. The alcoholic group differed other two groups in significantly lower potassium higher sodium values, they also had chloride values than individuals. Water content amounts present similar levels. Expected correlations on age disrupted there was negative correlation age. Various explanations these considered. pattern observed changes might have been due to: (1) Differences mode death. (2) Changes composition CSF/ ECS compartment. (3) Loss neurones, without replacement cells. (4) Expansion cellular compartment change its ionic normal concentrations ions extracellular phase. (5) Shrinkage phase. The first could not be excluded entirely; second fifth most improbable, but third made partial contribution findings. fourth explanation thought one likely correct. Only tentative justified limitations this type investigation are emphasized.