Alcohol can have detrimental effects on the liver, leading to various conditions and diseases. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, alcohol can directly harm the liver in several ways:

1. Fatty Liver Disease: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a buildup of fat in liver cells, causing steatosis or fatty liver disease. This condition is usually asymptomatic and can be reversed if alcohol consumption is reduced or stopped.

2. Alcoholic Hepatitis: Continued alcohol abuse can result in alcoholic hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver that can cause symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to liver failure and death.

3. Cirrhosis: Long-term, heavy drinking can result in cirrhosis, a severe form of liver damage characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue. Cirrhosis can lead to liver failure, which is often fatal.

4. Fibrosis: Alcohol consumption can also cause fibrosis, the formation of excess fibrous connective tissue in the liver, which can impair liver function.

5. Liver Cancer: Long-term, heavy drinking can increase the risk of liver cancer, one of the deadliest forms of cancer.

It is important to note that not all individuals who consume alcohol will develop liver disease, and the risk and severity of liver damage can depend on various factors, including the amount and duration of alcohol consumption, genetics, and other health conditions. However, limiting alcohol consumption is crucial to maintaining liver health and reducing the risk of liver disease.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Alcohol and the Liver. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/alcohol-and-the-liver/>