Key result
Prolonged abstinence in alcoholics linked to a ~67% reduction in vagal neuropathy.
Why the study?
The reversibility of cardiac vagal neuropathy in alcoholic subjects following prolonged abstinence was unclear.
Does prolonged abstinence improve cardiac vagal reflexes in alcoholic subjects with vagal neuropathy?
Population
11 alcoholic subjects studied after withdrawal
Comparison
Initial evaluation 1 to 6 weeks after withdrawal vs after up to 27 months abstinence
Design
Observational cohort study
Follow-up
Up to 27 months
Authors
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Supports potential reversibility of alcoholic vagal neuropathy; hypothesis-generating and requires randomized confirmation before practice change.
Observational (n=11)
Does prolonged abstinence improve cardiac vagal reflexes in alcoholic subjects with vagal neuropathy?
Absolute Event Rate: 18.2% vs 54.5%
Alcoholic vagal neuropathy may be reversible with prolonged abstinence and/or improved nutrition.
Tan et al. (1984) conducted an observational in Alcoholic vagal neuropathy (n=11). Prolonged abstinence vs. Initial state (1 to 6 weeks after withdrawal) was evaluated on Vagal neuropathy. Prolonged abstinence for up to 27 months in alcoholic subjects was associated with a decrease in vagal neuropathy from 54.5% to 18.2%.
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