Alcohol consumption may contribute to the death of liver cells (hepatocytes) by apoptosis and necrosis through numerous mechanisms. Of these two processes, apoptosis occurs at all stages of alcoholic liver disease whereas necrosis generally is found in advanced stages (i.e., alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis).

Source: Goodlett, C.R., and Horn, K.H. Mechanisms of alcohol-induced damage to the developing nervous system. Alcohol Research & Health 25(3):175–184, 2001.

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Prepared: February 2005