Confusion laboratory findings
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] ; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Govindavarjhulla, M.B.B.S. [2]
Overview
Several laboratory tests are there for evaluating confusion. It is the part of physician to choose the most useful once basing upon the history of the person. like patient presenting with confusion with severe neck stiffness, headache and fever have to be looked for infective foci and tests for the same are to be ordered.
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 creatinine, 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 derangements 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.
- Assessments of hormone levels may be useful especially thyroid.
- In cases of brain infections lumbar puncture is done and cerebrospinal fluid is evaluated.