In keeping with the broad differential diagnosis of mood
disorder symptoms screening evaluations for general medical conditions and substance
use syndromes that may mimic primary idiopathic mood disorders may be carried out.
History of present illness, past medical history, past
psychiatric history, substance use history, current medications,
family history, social history, developmental history, legal history,
review of systems, and focused physical examination are
indicated when evaluating patients with mood disorder symptoms.
Cognitive screening examinations, such as the MMSE
or MOCA are also indicated in the routine evaluation of mood disorders,
especially so in older patients and patients with a known or
suspected cognitive disorder.
Routine screening tests in mood disorder diagnosis may include
CBC
S. Creat / BUN
S. Electrolytes - with calcium.
LFT
TSH
B12
Urine R/M
ESR, HIV, RPR
RBS or FBS if not recently done, follow up with HbA1C if required
ECG if clinically indicated
Urine pregancy test or HCG in a female of child bearing age - always ask for LMP atleast and document
Further tests indicated by history and physical examination may include
EEG
CT / MRI
ANA
8AM Cortisol - follow up with DST [Cushings disease but also positve in depression] or ACTH stimulation test [Addission disease]
S. Prolactin
S. Free Testerone
S. Magnesium
Urine and blood screen for drugs and alcohol
ABG
2d ECHO
USG Abdomen and Pelvis
KF Ring, Serum Ceruloplasmin
Urine test for porphobilinogen
D3 levels
Medical or neurological consultation is also warranted, whenever a general medical or neurologic condition is suspected.