Diagnostic utility of hematologic, biochemical, and imaging investigations in alcohol dependence: A case–control study

ABSTRACT Background: The relationship between drinking severity and liver biochemical markers, USG, and FibroScan has not been adequately examined in Alcohol Dependence Syndrome (ADS) patients.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of macrocytosis in patients with ADS versus age-matched controls and examine its association with folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin D levels, liver biochemical markers, and imaging findings. Materials and Methods: This retrospective, case–control study included 47 ADS patients and 50 age-matched controls. MCV, vitamin B12, vitamin D, folic acid, GGT, AST, and ALT. USG and FibroScan were recorded for ADS patients. ADS cases were stratified into moderate and excessive drinkers. Statistical tests included the Mann–Whitney U test and the chi-square test.