Electrophysiologic properties of alcohol in man

Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Substrate Remodeling and Ablation Outcome of Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

“…Although numerous studies have already shown that acute alcohol consumption, especially binge drinking, predisposes patients to AF, which has been attributed to a hyperadrenergic state, impaired vagal tone, direct toxic effects of metabolite acetaldehyde, or free radicals from ethanol enzyme reaction, limited data exist on the how chronic alcohol consumption promotes atrial remodeling. Cardiac electrophysiological studies indicated a deleterious effect of alcohol consumption, whether acute or chronic, on atrial electrophysiological characteristics, including the prolongation of intra‐ and interatrial conduction and reduction in the atrial effective refractory period . Nevertheless, the relationship between long‐term alcohol consumption and atrial fibrosis have not been systematically studied.…”

“…Cardiac electrophysiological studies indicated a deleterious effect of alcohol consumption, whether acute or chronic, on atrial electrophysiological characteristics, including the prolongation of intra-and interatrial conduction and reduction in the atrial effective refractory period. [15][16][17] Nevertheless, the relationship between long-term alcohol consumption and atrial fibrosis have not been systematically studied. It has long been recognized that ethanol-induced cell injury and fibrosis have played a central role in the pathogenesis of alcohol liver disease, 18 prompting further investigation into whether alcohol toxicity may serve as the underlying mechanism for atrial fibrosis.…”

Alcohol Consumption, Left Atrial Diameter, and Atrial Fibrillation

“…A lthough alcohol consumption has been associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) in several large epidemiologic studies, 1-3 the responsible mechanisms remain unknown. Previous electrophysiologic studies have failed to demonstrate an electrical mechanism, [4][5][6][7] suggesting that structural changes in the atrium may be responsible.…”

Atrioventricular Block Due to Acute Ethanol Intoxication

“…Upon arrival, vital signs were: temperature 36.4°C, blood pressure 97/55 mm Hg, pulse 71 beats/min, respirations 17 breaths/min, and oxygen saturation 99% on room air. Other volunteer studies have demonstrated atrial conduction delays in the setting of acute ethanol intoxication (5,6). The remainder of her physical examination was unremarkable.…”