Which substance does CDT primarily detect through blood biomarkers?

CDT, or Carbohydrate-Deficient Transferrin, primarily detects long-term alcohol use through blood biomarkers. This is because CDT levels increase when there is a chronic and excessive intake of alcohol. Its specificity for alcohol – particularly heavy and long-term use – makes it a reliable marker for assessing alcohol consumption compared to other substances.

In contrast, the other substances listed, such as marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, are primarily detected through different testing methods, including urine or hair samples, rather than blood markers indicative of long-term use. This differentiates CDT from other drug tests, reinforcing its unique role in identifying patterns of alcohol abuse among clients. Understanding this distinction is essential for chemical dependency counselors, as it guides the assessment and treatment planning for individuals with alcohol use disorders.