Hematologic and oncologic implications of alcoholism.

Hematologic complications of alcoholism are common. Folic acid deficiency can lead to pancytopenia. Iron-deficiency anemia, various hemolytic states, and abnormalities in both function and number of platelets can occur. There is a great deal of interest in the adverse effects of alcohol on pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and folic acid metabolism. Malignant disease often complicates alcoholism and should always be suspected.