Diagnosis and management of emergency department patients with alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is a constellation of symptoms and signs resulting from the abrupt decrease or cessation of heavy alcohol use. Complications of alcohol withdrawal syndrome present significant dangers for patient morbidity and mortality, as well as burdens on emergency department resources. This review presents an overview of the pathophysiology of alcohol withdrawal syndrome and a systematic approach for management in the emergency department. Current evidence on treatment regimens and adjunctive therapies is reviewed, and recommendations for management of patients with alcohol use disorders are discussed.