The physiopathology of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is poorly understood. Animal studies suggest an alteration in the balance of neurotransmitters gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. The aim of this study was to obtain a better knowledge of the physiopathology of AWS, which could open new therapeutic approaches.
To compare the plasma levels of glutamate, GABA and glutamate/GABA ratio in alcoholic patients presenting with complicated AWS with the same values in non-alcohol abuser/dependent controls and to determine prognostic factors for severe withdrawal.
Eighty-eight patients admitted to the emergency room for acute alcohol intoxication (DSM-IV) were prospectively included. Measurements of GABA and glutamate were performed on admission (Time 1, T1) and after 12 ± 2 h (T2). The experimental group (EG) was composed of 23 patients who presented at T2 with a severe AWS. The control group (CG) consisted of healthy subjects paired with the EG (gender and age). Logistic regression was performed in order to compare associated clinical and biological variables that could predict severe withdrawal.
The concentration of GABA in the EG at T1 was significantly lower than that in the CG. The concentration of glutamate in the EG at T1 was significantly higher than that in the CG. The glutamate/GABA ratio in the EG at T1 was significantly higher than the ratio in the CG. With a multivariate logistic regression model, glutamate level at admission remained the only criterion identified as a predictor of AWS at 12 h.
The decreased synthesis of GABA and increased synthesis of glutamate might be related to withdrawal symptoms experienced on brutal cessation of chronic alcohol intake.
Read Full Abstract
Request Reprint E-Mail: gbrousse@chu-clermontferrand.fr
