ZINC-DEFICIENCY AND CORTICOSTEROIDS IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF ALCOHOLIC BRAIN-DYSFUNCTION - A REVIEW

Chronic alcoholism is associated with hypercortisolemia and low serum zinc (Zn). Hypercortisolemia could be responsible for alcoholic cerebr al atrophy and is also associated with enhanced NMDA neurotoxicity. It is hypothesized that low brain Zn, noted in chronic alcoholics, enhan ces NMDA excitotoxicity and ethanol withdrawal seizure susceptibility. Also, Zn deficiency can produce neuronal damage through increased fre e radical formation. Clinically, Zn replacement therapy may be a ratio nal approach to the treatment of alcohol withdrawal seizures and alcoh ol-related brain dysfunction.