Alcohol withdrawal other diagnostic studies

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Shakiba Hassanzadeh, MD[2]

There are no other diagnostic studies associated with alcohol withdrawal. However, studies with neurochemical brain imaging have shown the neurochemical effects during alcohol dependence and withdrawal.

• There are no other diagnostic studies associated with alcohol withdrawal.
• However, studies with neurochemical brain imaging [with magnetic resonance spectrometry (MRS), positron emission tomography (PET), and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)] have shown the neurochemical (GABA, glutamate, and dopamine) effects during alcohol dependence and withdrawal such as:^[1]
  • Downregulation of dopamine D2/D3 receptor
  • Higher glutamate levels during acute alcohol withdrawal followed by fluctuating concentrations
  • Potential detrimental effects on the GABA system by smoking