# Monitoring and treatment of alcohol use disorder: an integrated multidisciplinary model

## TL;DR

This paper discusses a multidisciplinary approach to managing alcohol use disorder and liver disease to improve patient outcomes.

## Contribution

The paper introduces an integrated care model involving multiple specialists to address both liver disease and alcohol use disorder comprehensively.

## Key findings

- Early identification and treatment of AUD can prevent advanced liver disease progression.
- Multidisciplinary care involving hepatologists, psychiatrists, and counselors is recommended for comprehensive management.
- Barriers exist in screening and managing AUD in ALD patients at multiple levels.

## Abstract

Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is one of the most prevalent liver diseases and a leading indication for liver transplantation (LT). Alcohol use disorder (AUD), commonly present in patients with ALD, may also be associated with psychiatric comorbidities such as depression and anxiety. Early identification of ALD and timely treatment of AUD can help prevent the progression to advanced stages of ALD, including cirrhosis and alcoholic hepatitis. However, screening for alcohol use and managing AUD in ALD patients are often not performed due to various barriers at the patient, clinician, and administrative levels. This review highlights an integrated multidisciplinary care model, emphasizing the roles of hepatologists, psychiatrists, addiction counselors, and social workers in providing comprehensive management of both liver disease and AUD. It outlines laboratory assessments, pharmacological and behavioral therapies, and recommended follow-up evaluations by specialists. The goal of this article is to promote team-based comprehensive care for patients with ALD.