Concealed alcohol abuse
Thaler, H.
Leber Magen Darm 11(2): 52-54
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-8622 PMID: 6112648 Document Number: 169444
Concealed alcohol abuse is primarily a social problem concerning predominantly women. Chronic alcoholism may be diagnosed by objective signs and biochemical data. The increased activity of gamma-glutamyltransferase (gamma-GT) is very indicative but not conclusive. Concealed chronic alcoholism may be proven by environmental anamnesis and in advanced cases by liver biopsy. With psychological skill and supported by the facts, the physician is usually able to induce the patient to speak. The patient has to admit his abuse and to understand his pathological condition if therapy is to be successful, therapy being absolute abstinence from alcohol. Abstinence may be controlled by determinations of gamma-GT.