Biomarkers of alcohol abuse. Part I. Traditional biomarkers and their interpretation
Waszkiewicz, N.; Konarzewska, B.; Waszkiewicz, M.; Popławska, R.; Szajda, Sławomir.Dariusz.; Zalewska, A.; Markowski, T.; Szulc, A.
Psychiatria Polska 44(1): 127-136
2010
ISSN/ISBN: 0033-2674 PMID: 20449986 Document Number: 639459
Approximately 15% of the Polish population abuse alcohol. Early detection of alcohol problems may prevent their further development and progression. The study reviews traditional biomarkers associated with alcohol abuse. The nature of biomarkers, their practical application and limitations in alcohol abuse detection, in assessment and monitoring of drinking, are reviewed. Despite the limited sensitivity and specificity in alcohol abuse detection, traditional biomarkers remain useful in alcohol abuse detection. They are widely available and relatively inexpensive, providing valuable data on complications of drinking and prognosis as well as on concurrent conditions affected by drinking.