Description

Blood tests can be important for diagnosing alcohol use disorder (AUD) and evaluate for complications of alcohol use. It is very common to have changes in the red blood cell, low thiamine/B12, and other labs. Monitoring can help with evaluation and treatment. Monitoring for liver damage can help avoid complications.

The following tests are included:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Hepatic Panel

Magnesium

PEth

Vitamin B1

Vitamin B12

Fasting not required.

Additional information about each test is listed below:

Complete Blood Count– Alcohol can interfere with the production and function of white blood cells, especially those that defend the body against invading bacteria. Consequently, alcoholics frequently suffer from bacterial infections. Finally, alcohol adversely affects the platelets and elevation of the size of red blood cells.

Hepatic Function Testing will evaluate the degree of liver inflammation caused by alcohol metabolism.

Magnesium is important for people with alcohol use disorder because it helps with withdrawal symptoms and can help prevent other health issues. 

PEth a laboratory analysis that detects recent alcohol consumption by measuring a specific alcohol biomarker in the blood. When alcohol is consumed, it is metabolized in the body and produces a substance called phosphatidylethanol (PEth). PEth is stored in the red blood cells and can be detected in a blood sample for up to 30 days after alcohol consumption. 

Lack of vitamin B1 is common in people who have alcohol use disorder. It is also common in people whose bodies do not absorb food properly (malabsorption). This can sometimes occur with a chronic illness or after weight-loss (bariatric) surgery.

Vitamin B12 is important for people with alcohol use disorder (AUD) because it can help with memory, mood, and liver health. Alcohol can cause a deficiency in vitamin B12, which can lead to other health problems.