Investigations
1st investigations to order
clinical assessment
Test
Laboratory testing or imaging studies are not typically indicated for panic disorder.
Result
self-reporting, clinical interview, and behavioural observation are sufficient to establish the diagnosis; diagnosis meets clinical criteria for panic disorder (e.g., DSM-5-TR)
Investigations to consider
ECG
Test
Required in all patients presenting with chest pain or other cardiac symptoms (e.g., arrhythmia), to exclude cardiac causes.
Result
normal
blood glucose
Test
To rule out hypoglycaemia as a contributory factor to the clinical presentation.
Result
normal; low in hypoglycaemia
thyroid function tests
Test
To rule out hyperthyroidism as a contributory factor to the clinical presentation.
Result
normal; elevated T4, low thyroid-stimulating hormone in hyperthyroidism
metabolic panel
Test
To investigate for a potential organic underlying cause, a reasonable basic panel includes an FBC, and urea and electrolytes.
Result
normal
toxicology screen
Test
To determine whether illicit substances are contributing to the clinical presentation.
Result
negative; positive in illicit drug use
Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer