Alcohol Abuse Flashcards
1
Q
What are the indicators of chronic alcohol abuse on examination and testing?
A
Elevated gamma GT Macrocytosis Low platelets Elevated ferritin Enlarged smooth edged liver on AUSS
2
Q
What are the criteria for a diagnosis of dependence syndrome?
A
- drug takes higher priority/primacy
- strong desire to use
- increased tolerance
- withdrawal
- persisting use despite harmful consequences
- lack of control
3 or more present for at least a month or repeatedly over 12 months
3
Q
What does CAGE stand for?
A
Have you ever tried to Cut down your drinking?
Do you ever get Annoyed when people challenge your drinking?
Do you ever feel Guilty about your drinking?
Do you ever need an Eye opener?
4
Q
How many units per week?
A
<14
5
Q
What are some of the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal?
A
Tremor Weakness Nausea Vomiting Anxiety Seizures Confusion Agitation Death Delirium tremens
6
Q
What is delirium tremens?
A
Profound confusion Tremor Agitation Hallucinations Delusions Sleeplessness Autonomic overactivity
Usually 48-72 hours after alcohol is stopped
7
Q
What are the symptoms of Korsakoff’s psychosis?
A
Prominent impairment of recent and remote memory Preservation of immediate recall No general cognitive impairment Retrograde and anterograde memory Impaired learning and disorientation May exhibit nystagmus and ataxia
8
Q
What causes Korsakoff’s psychosis?
A
Thiamine deficiency
