Serum carbohydrate deficient transferrin as a sensitive marker in diagnosing alcohol abuse: a case control study.

摘要: Dear Editor, This letter is in response to the article titled “Serum Carbohydrate deficient transferrin as a sensitive marker diagnosing alcohol abuse: A case control study” published inJournal of clinical and diagnostic research Journal issue2013;7(2):197-200). The was helpful understand importance biomarkers abuse [1]. With all consideration, we would like point out some aspects regarding study. sample size 25 cases controls; justification for this not given. can be elevated due factors such participants with digestive problems, kidney diseases or other immune disorders, only consumption. Hence, these should also have been excluded. As per Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Advisory [2], there window period methodology within were included.As methodology, groups are age matched, which means comparable regard age. What need do statistical test groups? A study used find risk associated any diseases. Here primary aim evaluate usefulness %CDT biological markers implicated abuse.It clear whether has identified use compared biomarkers. In Table1, mean standard deviation given on each biomarker both groups. With SD identify %CDT?In varies from normal abnormal level. values Table1. As literature, false positive results more prevalent identifying because coffee consumption reduce percent (ALT/AST) [3]. Also diabetes elevate blood [4].Themeasures overcome discussed From literature it evident that present months years even if having non- alcoholics. In Table2, sensitivity specificity given.The method calculation clear. Result section page 199 second paragraph mentioned group included test. query why excluded specificity. It possible generalize result alone controls alone. If groupswere specificity, accurate reliable obtained.