The role of laboratory tests in alcoholism treatment

Although assessment in the field of alcoholism treatment is generally verba l in nature, biological tests can also provide counselors and program evalu ators useful and unique information. Five such laboratory measures are brie fly described, with particular emphasis on carbohydrate deficient transferr in, a biomarker recently approved by the FDA. Applications for laboratory t ests in alcohol screening, motivating patients, and monitoring treatment pr ogress are also proposed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserve d.