Cognitive impairments are frequent in patients who abuse alcohol and other substances – both as a direct consequence of substance-induced changes in brain chemistry and because of co-morbid conditions such as pain and depression. The nature and severity of cognitive deficits are important markers of the severity of illness. In addition, cognitive limitations in this population place constraints on a patients’ ability to participate in recovery programs and lead productive lives. CAS benefits clinicians by allowing them to detect cognitive impairments, treat them with a variety of interventions and monitor their response to therapy.
Alcohol Amnestic Syndrome
