7 months ago
Scientists Discover Cause of Auto-Brewery Syndrome
Scientists have found out that some people can feel drunk without drinking alcohol.
This happens because of a rare condition called auto-brewery syndrome (ABS), where certain bacteria in the gut turn carbohydrates into alcohol.
This alcohol then goes into the bloodstream and makes the person feel intoxicated.
The condition is hard to diagnose and treat, but researchers have identified specific bacteria involved, like Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli.
They also found that a treatment called faecal microbiota transplant can help some patients feel better by restoring healthy gut bacteria.
This discovery could help more people get the right diagnosis and treatment, reducing the stigma and confusion around ABS.
Auto-brewery syndrome (ABS) causes the body to produce its own alcohol, leading to intoxication without drinking.
Gut bacteria convert carbohydrates into ethanol, which enters the bloodstream and causes symptoms of drunkenness.
ABS is rare and often misdiagnosed, with patients facing social stigma and legal issues.
Researchers identified specific bacteria, like Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli, associated with ABS.
Faecal microbiota transplants have shown promise in treating ABS by restoring healthy gut bacteria.
- Who
- Individuals with auto-brewery syndrome (ABS)
- What
- Gut bacteria producing alcohol leading to intoxication
- Where
- In the gut
- When
- During active symptom flare-ups
- Why
- Due to certain gut microbes converting carbohydrates into ethanol
Key facts
- Condition
- Auto-brewery syndrome (ABS)
- Cause
- Gut bacteria converting carbohydrates into ethanol
- Diagnosis
- Closely monitored blood alcohol testing or stool sample tests
- Treatment
- Faecal microbiota transplant
- Symptoms
- Intoxication without alcohol consumption
- Bacteria Involved
- Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli
- Study Journal
- Nature Microbiology
- Lead Researcher
- Elizabeth Hohmann
Quotes
Elizabeth Hohmann
Co-senior author of the study from the Infectious Disease Division in the Mass General Brigham Department of Medicine
“Finding out which bacteria and microbial pathways are responsible for this condition can help with diagnosing the problem easily, offer better treatments and an improved quality of life for individuals living with this rare condition”
wionews.com
“Auto-brewery syndrome is a misunderstood condition with few tests and treatments. Our study demonstrates the potential for faecal transplantation”
wionews.com
