Advances in the prediction of biological markers of alcohol dependence relapse

Abstract

Alcohol dependence is a chronic and relapsing disease that causes mental and organ damage due to long-term heavy drinking, which has serious adverse effects on individuals and society. Previous studies have shown that even after inpatient treatment, the relapse rate of alcohol-dependent patients can be as high as 60% – 70% within 3 months after discharge. Currently, the mechanisms associated with relapse to drinking in alcohol-dependent patients are still unclear. And most of the studies reported in the past have been about the relationship between psychosocial factors and relapse to drinking, while few studies have examined the relationship between biological indicators and relapse to drinking. Therefore, in this paper, we summarize the recent literature to explore the biological markers related to alcohol dependence relapse and discuss the progress of research on relapse prediction, in order to provide reference and help to reduce the relapse rate and improve the quality of life of patients.

Keywords

alcohol dependence / relapse / biological marker