Evaluating Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) Scores as a Predictor of Alcoholic Liver Disease Severity in a Coastal Tertiary Care Centre: An Observational Study

Abstract

Alcohol consumption is a significant public health concern due to its link to various health problems, including alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Despite its long-standing presence in cultures worldwide, alcohol addiction remains a complex issue affecting individuals of all ages. This study aims to explore the correlation between alcohol abuse and the severity of ALD. Sixty adult patients with a history of significant alcohol consumption were selected for the study. Patients were divided into three groups based on alcohol abuse severity. Various clinical and biochemical parameters were assessed, including liver function tests and ultrasound findings. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between alcohol abuse and ALD severity. Patients presented with varying degrees of ALD, with complications such as ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and gastrointestinal bleeding. The study found a significant correlation between alcohol abuse and manifestations of portal hypertension, namely ascites and gastrointestinal bleeding. Mortality was observed only in the group with possible addiction. The study highlights the importance of addressing alcohol abuse as a risk factor for ALD complications, particularly portal hypertension-related manifestations. Further research with larger sample sizes and longitudinal studies is recommended to better understand the impact of alcohol abuse disorder on the severity of ALD.