An evaluation of the generative and hormonal functions of the male gonad in chronic alcoholics
Semczuk, M.
Annales Universitatis Mariae Curie-Sklodowska. Sectio D Medicina 35: 263-269
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0066-2240 PMID: 7349075 Document Number: 161590
Ethyl alcohol penetrates through to the organs and body fluids on a diffusive basis, depending on its dose, concentration, total H2O content in the organism and the tissue hydration. Alcohol, which is introduced into the organism in excess, is a toxic substance and in very high concentrations can even cause protein denaturation and directly damage many cells of the organs. Damage to the organ function can be caused by a direct action of alcohol and the products of its transformation, or it can be a consequence of intrasystemic disturbances caused by alcohol. Ethyl alcohol damages parenchymatous organs, among these the male gonad. Up-to-date experimental research indicates a negative influence of ethyl alcohol on the structure and function of the male gonad. A reduced biological value of the semen of male chronic alcoholics was confirmed.