Neurologic complications of alcoholism.

Alcohol is still the most abused drug today and may affect the peripheral, central, and autonomic nervous system in many ways. There are several pathophysiologic mechanisms that include direct effects through intoxication, withdrawal effects, secondary effects from nutritional problems and systemic diseases, and, of course, syndromes of unknown etiology. The alcoholic is also susceptible to trauma to both the central and peripheral nervous system. In many of the clinical entities, multiple factors play a role.