Long term abusers of alcohol usually have some degree of liver damage ranging from reversible fatty liver (steatosis) to cirrhosis. There is a complex interaction between liver disease, continued drinking and dysfunction in other organs including the brain.

Evidence suggests there may be significant gender differences in susceptibility to alcohol related liver disease, with women being more susceptible than men.

The profound effects of severe liver disease on neurological function have been known for many years. Research suggests that noncirrhotic liver disease is also associated with impairment of neurological functioning. If advanced liver disease is diagnosed there is sufficient evidence to suggest that some diminution of cognitive functioning is also present.