Title: Spectrum of Alcohol-Related Morbidities in Patients Presenting to Medical Emergency
Authors: Pankaj Singh, Bhavneet Kour, Rohan Gupta
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v5i7.81
Abstract
Background: Alcohol dependency and alcohol abuse is a major health care objective being faced by doctors during emergency services. Prompt specialized examination, pathological examination and social therapy should be initiated for early treatment of patients with alcohol problems. This study was conducted to find out the spectrum and burden of alcohol-specific and alcohol-related diseases in patients in the department of medicine.
Materials and Methods: This propective one-year study was conducted on 800 patients greater than 18 years of age presenting to the emergency department with alcohol attribute disorders. Detailed history was taken and examination was conducted. History of alcohol intake was assessed according to “Six question set” recommended by National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Investigations included complete haemogram, biochemical variables, liver function tests, chest radiograph, electrocardiogram and ultrasonography abdomen. Data collected was presented in the form of frequencies and percentages. Chi-square test was applied wherever comparison was to be made.
Results: Alcohol attribute disorders were recorded to be 3.40% of the total number of admissions. Majority of the cases were those of chronic alcohol attribute disorders (92.50%). Male gender dominated the study group (99.50%) with most being in the age group of >50 years (56.50%). Most cases were from the rural areas (58%). More cases of chronic alcohol consumers were observed (60%) taking more than 81 grams alcohol per day. Also 80% subjects were consuming alcohol for more than 16 years and majority (71.89%) of them were diagnosed with alcoholic liver disease, followed by alcohol induced pancreatitis (14.05%).
Conclusion: Alcoholic liver disease occurs in patients who consume excessive amounts of alcohol. Early diagnosis, appropriate management in the form of pharmacotherapy and counselling can help in minimizing the progression to fatal complications.
Keywords: Alcohol abuse, Alcoholism, Alcohol attribute disorders, Chronic alcohol diseases.
