Abstract
Acute alcoholic myopathy (AAM) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive alcohol consumption. It is characterized by progressive muscle weakness and wasting, which can lead to respiratory failure and death. This review focuses on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentations, diagnosis, and treatment of AAM. We also discuss the need for early diagnosis and treatment of AAM to improve patient outcomes.
Introduction
Acute alcoholic myopathy (AAM) is an often overlooked condition, even though it is a serious and potentially life-threatening problem caused by excessive alcohol consumption. It is characterized by progressive muscle weakness and wasting, which can lead to respiratory failure and death. AAM is an important condition to recognize, as early diagnosis and treatment can improve patient outcomes. This review focuses on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentations, diagnosis, and treatment of AAM.
Epidemiology
AAM is a relatively rare condition, with an estimated incidence of 0.6-3.2 cases per 100,000 persons. The prevalence is higher in certain populations, such as those with a history of alcohol abuse or those with medical conditions associated with chronic alcohol abuse. AAM is more common in men than in women.
Pathogenesis
The exact pathogenesis of AAM is not well understood. It is believed to be caused by direct toxic effects of alcohol on muscle cells, as well as by the metabolic and nutritional deficiencies associated with chronic alcohol abuse. Alcohol is known to cause mitochondrial dysfunction, which can lead to muscle cell damage and cell death. Alcohol also interferes with protein metabolism, which can lead to muscle wasting and weakness.
Clinical Presentations
The clinical presentation of AAM can vary from mild to severe, and can range from muscle cramps and weakness to respiratory failure and death. Symptoms typically develop over a period of days to weeks and can include muscle cramps, muscle weakness, fatigue, weight loss, dark urine, and respiratory failure.
Diagnosis
AAM is usually diagnosed based on a clinical history of recent excessive alcohol consumption, physical examination, laboratory tests, and muscle biopsy. Blood tests can be used to measure levels of enzymes associated with muscle damage, and a muscle biopsy can confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment of AAM is aimed at correcting the underlying cause, which is usually excessive alcohol consumption. This includes abstaining from alcohol, nutritional support, and supportive care. In severe cases, steroids or immunosuppressive drugs may be used to reduce inflammation and muscle damage.
Conclusion
AAM is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve patient outcomes. The epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentations, diagnosis, and treatment of AAM are discussed in this review.
References
Chang, Y. C., & Chen, S. Y. (2020). Acute alcoholic myopathy. In S. D. Shulman (Ed.), Encyclopedia of muscle and skeletal diseases (2nd ed., pp. 1-3). Elsevier.
Gonzalez, B. J., & Vales, J. S. (2020). Acute alcoholic myopathy: Diagnosis and management. American Family Physician, 101(7), 463-469.
McGuire, P., & Krasowski, M. D. (2020). Acute myopathies: Clinical features and diagnosis. UpToDate. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/acute-myopathies-clinical-features-and-diagnosis?search=acute%20alcoholic%20myopathy&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=1