Electrolyte Alterations in Human Plasma and Erythrocytes Associated With Chronic Alcoholism.

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Abstract
Sixty-four chronic alcoholic patients, who had long histories of alcoholism, were studied with respect to plasma and red blood cell Na, K and Cl before administration of any therapy. Plasma Na, K and Cl were significantly reduced below control values obtained in a large group of normal medical students. Erythrocyte K was significantly elevated, while Na remained unchanged. In addition, plasma protein concentration and hematocrit were significantly reduced in the alcoholics.