Differential Diagnosis of Alcoholism

Abstract

The stereotype of the alcoholic as a skid- row bum is only one of many persisting fallacies concerning alcoholism. Others have to do with overtness, “hitting bottom,” quantity of alcohol consumed, and progression. Many more problem drinkers remain “stuck” at an earlier phase than progress to the end stages marked by psychologic, social and vocational deterioration. It is up to the physician to make the diagnosis at a time when prognosis is favorable.