Confusion laboratory findings: Difference between revisions

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==Laboratory tests==
==Laboratory tests==
A large number of tests are needed in presentations of confusion. Most of the tests are to determine the cause of confusion. Careful history can reduce the burden of unnecessary tests.
* Blood tests include routine tests like CBC to assess general condition.
* Serum creatine, glucose, calcium , electrolytes.
* Blood for toxins and drugs.
* Urine analysis and culture.
* Blood culture if infectious cause has to be evaluated.
* Blood gas analysis if any metabolic derangement are suspected.
* Vitamin assays and cholesterol levels may indicate nutritional status.
* Renal function tests and liver function tests are useful if they are the cause of confusion.
* Assesment of hormone levels may be usefull espicecially thyroid.
* In cases of brain infections lumbar puncture is done and fluid is evaluated.


==References==
==References==

Revision as of 05:09, 18 July 2012