Final answer:
The statement is true; seizures can occur during alcohol withdrawal in a small minority due to heightened central nervous system excitability, which is a potentially dangerous symptom requiring medical supervision.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that after 72 hours of alcohol withdrawal, a small minority may develop seizures due to heightened central nervous system excitability is true. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, and with chronic use, the body compensates for its inhibitory effects by increasing the activity of excitatory neural pathways. This leads to tolerance, where higher doses of alcohol are required to achieve the same effects. When a person who is dependent on alcohol abruptly stops drinking, they can experience acute withdrawal symptoms.
One of the serious symptoms includes the risk of seizures due to the sudden lack of alcohol's inhibitory influence and resultant hyperactivity in the brain. It is crucial to note that alcohol withdrawal, especially for those with a history of heavy use, can be dangerous and should be managed under medical supervision to mitigate risks including seizures.