Alcohol versus Mnemosyne--blackouts

J Subst Abuse Treat. 1989;6(3):159-62. doi: 10.1016/0740-5472(89)90002-0.

Abstract

Blackouts induced by alcohol, in spite of their frequent occurrence, remain something of an enigma. This article reviews the knowledge of the blackout and of memory theory to date, and proposes a definition for this amnestic event. After establishing a definition, the article comments on the clinical significance, both from a medical and a medical-legal perspective.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alcohol Amnestic Disorder / diagnosis
  • Alcohol Amnestic Disorder / etiology
  • Alcoholic Intoxication / complications*
  • Amnesia / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Memory