Answer:
In a patient, the set of symptoms and clinical signs characterized by dementia, cirrhosis, and an irregular heartbeat is probably caused by alcoholism (option a).
Step-by-step explanation:
Chronic alcoholism is characterized by frequent and heavy consumption of alcoholic beverages, which can lead to long-term liver damage.
One of the diseases found in chronic alcoholism is liver cirrhosis, a disorder consisting of fibrosis of the liver tissue, resulting in liver failure. Additionally, alcohol and its metabolites can cause damage to heart tissue, producing irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia, and dementia due to damage to brain cells.
The other options are not correct because:
b. Binge drinking is related to excessive alcohol consumption, which can lead to cirrhosis.
c. Hepatitis, especially type B and C, can cause liver damage leading to cirrhosis, although it only affects 10% of people with the infection.
d. Simple intoxication does not necessarily have to cause liver damage or cirrhosis.