Proposed recommendations for research on biochemical markers for problematic drinking.
Biochemical markers can serve as valuable tools in screening for problematic drinking, determining whether a health problem is likely alcohol related, and monitoring alcoholics for relapse during and after treatment. Furthermore, biochemical markers can assist in forensic investigations; in identification of public health, safety, and transportation workers who may drink excessively and who, as a result, may put others at risk; in evaluation of efficacy of treatments for alcohol abuse; and in recognition of early phase alcohol-related tissue damage. Within all of these contexts, a biochemical marker or set of markers may corroborate verbal reports or may provide valuable independent information on alcohol use when an individual is unable or unwilling to offer valid data about alcohol consumption.
Allen
J P
JP
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Fertig
J B
JB
Litten
R Z
RZ
Sillanaukee
P
P
Anton
R F
RF
D000437:Alcoholism / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000201:enzymology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000097:blood*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008111:Liver Function Tests; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D012016:Reference Values
D015415:Biomarkers