Chapter 18 – Laboratory Evaluation

The neurologic history and examination often allow the physician to make an anatomic or syndromic diagnosis. Additional studies, including laboratory tests, electrophysiology, neuroimaging, and biopsy can add precision to this diagnosis and often support an etiologic diagnosis. The chapters in this section describe the use of many ancillary tests that are helpful in neurologic diagnosis. The goal of these chapters is to provide a brief general description of the nature and interpretation of commonly used tests. More specific information about the indications and interpretations of certain tests can be found in the discussions of particular diseases. This chapter addresses selected general laboratory tests significant in neurologic diagnosis.