TABLE 3.

Risk factors for severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome (CNS: central nervous system; BAL: breathe/blood alcohol concentration; CIWA-Ar: Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcoholism, revised; AST: aspartate aminotransferase) [42, 60].

Previous episodes of alcohol withdrawal (detoxification, rehabilitation, seizures, delirium tremens

Concomitant use of CNS-depressant agents, such as benzodiazepine or barbiturates

Concomitant use of other illicit substances

High blood alcohol level (BAL) on admission (i.e. >200 mg/dl)

Evidence of increased autonomic activity (i.e. systolic blood pressure > 150 mmHg, body temperature > 38°C)

Older age

Moderate to severe alcohol withdrawal at diagnosis (CIWA-Ar > 10)

Medical or surgical illness (i.e. trauma, infection, liver disease, CNS infection, electrolyte disturbances, hypoglycaemia, etc.)

Severe alcohol dependence

Abnormal liver function (elevated AST)

Recent alcohol intoxication

Male sex