Journal Published Online: 01 July 1986
Volume 31, Issue 3

Pathological Intoxication and Alcohol Idiosyncratic Intoxication—Part I: Diagnostic and Clinical Aspects

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The concept of pathological intoxication and its successor term, alcohol idiosyncratic reaction, has been one of ambiguity and professional disagreement. The history of such an entity reveals contradictions and varying usage—particularly in regard to the amount of alcohol required. Some feel that the current classification system is broad enough to include such reactions without the use of such terms. Laboratory and electroencephalographic findings are not diagnostic. The author suggests that if the concept is to be retained, psychiatrists utilize where possible the term “alcohol idiosyncratic reaction” in accord with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) III guidelines, particularly in view of the medicolegal implications discussed in Part II, which follows as a separate paper.

Author Information

Perr, IN
Rutgers Medical School-UMDNJ, Piscataway, NJ
Pages: 6
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS11090J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11090J