The pathology of alcohol use and abuse

Alcohol is the most widely abused substance in the United States and its pathology is responsible for more pathological conditions than all other forms of drug use combined. Alcohol dependence is associated with a number of adverse individual and societal consequences and high rates of morbidity and mortality. Alcohol use and abuse have a significant pathological effect on the brain, fetus, liver, heart, pancreas, and immune system. Cancer risks have also been attributed to alcohol use and abuse. Assessing acute and chronic alcohol consumption is critical to effective treatment but unfortunately currently available clinical laboratory testing procedures lack the ability to inform alcohol treatment providers about use and abuse.