Which set of tests is typically included in routine labs for alcohol detox?

• A. Syphilis screen, CMP, lipid profile, CBC with differential, UDS, UPT for all women, PPD or CXR, routine vitals
• B. Only CMP and CBC with differential
• C. Calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase levels only
• D. Urine toxicology screen alone

Answer: (A)

When someone comes in for alcohol detox, you want a broad baseline to ensure safety and guide treatment, looking for how the body is handling alcohol, whether there are nutritional or infectious issues, and any other factors that could affect withdrawal management. A typical initial workup includes a comprehensive metabolic panel to assess electrolytes and organ function, a complete blood count to check for anemia or infection, and additional screens that catch other problems common in this population. Adding a lipid profile helps assess cardiovascular risk related to long-term use, a urine drug screen looks for other substances that could complicate withdrawal, and a urine pregnancy test for all women of childbearing potential is essential before certain treatments. TB screening with a PPD or chest X-ray, when indicated, helps identify infections that could influence care. Routine vitals provide ongoing safety monitoring during withdrawal.

This broader set is needed because narrower options miss important safety signals or coexisting conditions, such as pregnancy, infectious risks, or other substance use, which can change management. A tiny panel or single test would not give the full picture needed for safe detox.