Radiological Insights into Alcohol Use-Associated Disorders and Diseases: Part II

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a preventable non-communicable disease that affects multiple organs and organ systems across all age groups, including the fetus and is a risk factor for developing certain cancers. Furthermore, alcohol intoxication can result in physical trauma to oneself and others, and is a contributing factor in road accidents. Early recognition of AUD is critical for improving diagnosis, management, and outcomes. Accurate diagnosis relies on comprehensive clinical evaluation and patient history. However, denial of AUD, inebriation, and lack of awareness of problems associated with AUD, can prevent early identification of the disease. AUD-associated organ damage manifests in several ways and can be recognized on imaging modalities including ultrasound, CT, and MRI. Detection of these imaging features is useful in raising suspicion of AUD or diagnosing chronic alcohol use. Radiologists should be aware of the manifestations of alcohol's effects across various organ systems and aid in the early detection and treatment of AUD. In this two-part review, the authors present a comprehensive image-based review illustrating the effects of AUD on different organ systems at various stages. This second part focuses on the imaging manifestations in the central nervous system, fetal health, cardiovascular system, and musculoskeletal system. Additionally, a brief overview of secondary imaging manifestations of alcohol use, associated with trauma and cancers, will be presented.