ABSTRACT
The course of some of the somatic sequelae however, is more predictable, and it is now beyond doubt that a spectrum of liver disorders may result as a direct consequence of chronic ethanol abuse. In recent years, a steadily escalating trend in deaths from cirrhosis has been noted, and these are mainly alcoholic in origin. On a theoretical basis, it is generally agreed that cooperation is essential in the overall management of the alcoholic patient, particularly with a somatic disturbance such as liver disease. The control of alcoholic liver disease is essentially the control of alcohol abuse, and, as such, is predominantly a psycho-social problem. Personal participation in the running of a combined psychiatric/medical clinic for a trial of drug therapy in alcoholism has left no doubts as to the value of such an exercise. Although only medical involvement has been discussed, success in management can only be achieved by making full use of ancillary help and voluntary agencies.
