Introduction to alcoholic hepatitis

Excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to acute and chronic liver disease. All patients with alcoholic liver disease should stop drinking alcohol. Over time, abstinence leads to stabilisation or improvement in liver biochemistry and the clinical manifestations of liver disease.

Note: Long-term abstinence from alcohol is essential for the best patient outcomes.

For information about long-term management of alcohol dependence, including alcohol withdrawal, see Overview of disorders of alcohol use.