Use of laboratory assessments in psychiatry

Laboratory assessment is an important compliment to the clinical interview and physical examination in establishing the diagnosis and implementing/ monitoring treatment. To illustrate the clinical relevance of laboratory use, a case example is presented throughout the chapter with the purpose of discussing laboratory use as an aid in establishing the diagnosis and general health status by excluding an underlying comorbid medical condition and monitoring treatment adequacy and safety. Skillful use and interpretation of laboratory tests should aid in identification of an underlying condition and lead to a better understanding of the disease process.