Understanding Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease with Dr. Lamia Haque
Episode Overview
Understand the link between alcohol use disorder and liver disease. Learn about safe medications for treating AUD. Identify criteria for early liver transplantation eligibility. Explore genetic factors and diagnostic tools like transient elastography. Address the stigma associated with AUD and its impact on treatment.
The biggest rises in alcohol-associated liver disease have been in younger adults.
Dive into the intricate relationship between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and liver disease in this episode of The Curbsiders Addiction Medicine Podcast. Dr. Carolyn Chan and Dr. Kenny Morford are joined by the knowledgeable Dr. Lamia Haque, a hepatologist and addiction medicine specialist from Yale School of Medicine. Together, they unpack the complexities of diagnosing, assessing, and treating alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), providing invaluable insights for healthcare professionals and those affected by these conditions. Dr.
Haque shares her expertise on evaluating liver disease in patients with AUD, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and the safe use of AUD medications. She also delves into the criteria for liver transplantation, shedding light on how certain patients might qualify earlier than expected. The episode touches on real-world cases, such as a 46-year-old woman with severe AUD and alcohol-related cirrhosis, offering practical advice on managing similar cases. Throughout the discussion, Dr.
Haque emphasises the need for a comprehensive approach to treatment, considering genetic factors, patient history, and the latest medical guidelines. Her insights on using transient elastography and other diagnostic tools to predict liver fibrosis are particularly enlightening. The conversation also explores the evolving landscape of liver transplantation, addressing the stigma associated with AUD and how it impacts treatment decisions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the nuances of ALD and the best practices for managing it.
Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone personally affected by AUD, you'll find valuable information and compassionate advice here. So why wait? Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how to support patients with ALD and improve their quality of life.