[Biological alcohol markers. Genetic markers for familial alcoholism and markers for the detection of harmful alcohol consumption].

Existing biological markers of alcoholism and excessive alcohol consumption are of poor sensitivity and specificity, and new, improved markers are needed. Owing to the genetic contribution to the development of alcoholism, as demonstrated in family and adoption studies, a search has been initiated for 'preventive' or genetic markers. In addition, other new biochemical markers have been introduced, and results so far obtained with CDT (carbohydrate deficient transferrin) in the detection of alcoholics have been promising. However, the clinical and scientific implications of these new markers need to be elucidated in greater detail.