Epidemiología del síndrome de abstinencia alcohólica en la Comunidad Autónoma de Galicia

Resumen

We define alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) as a group of symptoms that may occur after decrease or suddenly stopping the alcohol intake, including headache, sweating, tremor, insomnia, nervousness, nausea, vomiting, visual and auditive hallucinations, or convulsions. Some patients evolve to delirium tremens. Objective: To determine the prevalence and epidemiologic characteristics of AWS in Galicia (Spain), an autonomic community with high prevalence of risk drinkers, where the apparition of alcohol withdrawal symptoms might be frequent. Patients and methods: We have performed a retrospective analysis of the hospital in Galicia Hospitals with the diagnosis of Alcohol Withdrawal (AW) or Delirium Tremens (DT) from 1 January 1996 to 31 December 2008. Data were provided by the computerized administrative database of the hospitals of Sergas and Povisa. Data were collected regarding age, gender, mean stay, admission department, length of stay and clinical course. Results: We identified 7990 cases in 6452 patients, 78% AW and 22% DT, with mean stay of 13,7 days (SD: 14,8). Mean age was 52 years old (SD: 13), 85% male. AW or DT were the main diagnosis in 45% of discharges, and in 73% of cases it was into the three main diagnoses. 55% of patients were admitted to Internal Medicine departments and 24% to Critical Care Units. Mortality was 4,6%. AWS was present in 0,27% of all admissions to medical and surgical Hospital-Services. Considering Internal trfrff qASWA<DSXZSAZ< 2A departments, AWS was present in 0,95% of all discharges. During the period 2007-2008, cases of AW have decreased both in Internal Medicine (0,76%) and other Hospital-Services (0,24%). Conclusions: The prevalence of AWS in our community is relatively high and its mortality is significant. Internal Medicine services are most frequently involved in its management.