Understanding Lab Test Results

Our kids are often times subjected to many meidcal and lab tests, and as parents we are often at a loss for how to interprate the results. It is important that we understand what is going on so that we can be full partners in the treatment team nd help assure that our children recives the best care possible. Here are some links to help explain:

Merck Manual Normal Lab Values

Understanding Your Chem-Screen (CS) Test

Medical Tests Information on medical tests, including how to prepare, what to expect, and what the results mean

Monitoring Antipsychotic Medications

From Dorie Geraci, MS, RN, Board of Directors, Medication Safety Team Leader, Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation:

I found information in 2 resources for the medical management of children on antipsychotic medications. This first article refers to patients diagnosed with schizophrenia but many of the concepts are the same since monitoring is related to medications used (antipsychotics).

Physical health monitoring of patients with schizophrenia by SR Marder et.al.
Am J Psychiatry. 2004 Aug;161(8):1334-49.

Consensus recommendations included regular monitoring of body mass index, plasma glucose level, lipid profiles, and signs of prolactin elevation or sexual dysfunction. Information from monitoring should guide the selection of antipsychotic agents. Specific recommendations were made for cardiac monitoring of patients who receive medications associated with QT interval prolongation, including thioridazine, mesoridazine, and ziprasidone (Geodon), and for monitoring for signs of myocarditis (inflammation of the muscle surrounding the heart) in patients treated with clozapine (Clozaril). Patients who receive both newer atypical and older antipsychotic medications should be examined for extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia.

In New Hope for Children and Teens with Bipolar Disorder, Dr. Boris Birmaher recommends the following lab tests needed before and during treatment with antipsychotic medications:

weight
blood pressure
pulse
complete blood count
liver function tests
kidney function tests
fasting glucose (blood sugar)
electrocardiogram
lipid profile (to include cholesterol and triglycerides)
prolactin level (if taking Risperdal, Zyprexa and to lesser degree Seroquel

THE FINE PRINT

The information on these web pages is the compilation of parents who are trying to help our kids and in the process help others as well. The information found on this site is intended solely for informational, educational and support purposes only. There are no claims made of medical, legal, educational or other advice nor are there any guarantees implied. Do not make any medication or therapy changes, legal, educational or other decisions based on information found here without first consulting a professional who knows your child and family. Many websites, books and other sources are referenced for information, such reference does not imply endorsement.

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