Psychosocial Characteristics of Patients with Alcoholic Liver Disease

Chung, Joon Mo; Choi, Yong Hwan; Kweon, Young Oh; Kwean, Joong Gu; Lee, Juk Nae

Abstract

Background/Aims, Many studies have revealed evidences supporting that the incidence and the mortality of patients with alcoholic liver disease resulting from alcohol abuse have been increased in Korea. However, there is a lack of research considering the psychological factors in patients with alcoholic liver disease. Consequently, this study was designed to evaluate the demographic characteristics, drinking patterns and psychologic symptoms of the patients with alcoholic liver disease.
METHODS
Structured questionnaire and symptom cheek list-90-revision (SCL-90-R) were used for groups with alcoholic liver disease and alcohol dependence.
RESULTS
There were striking differences in socio-demographic characteristics, marital problem (patient and parent), psychopathology of family members and drinking pattern between the groups of alcoholic liver disease and alcohol dependence. The resulting scores for 4 parameters (obsessive-compulsive, sensitivity, anxiety, hostility) were higher in the group of alcoholic liver disease than in alcohol dependence (P<0.05, P<0.01, P<0.01, P<0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
For the management of the patients with alcoholic liver disease, the psychopathology of the patients should be considered.