Tests
1st tests to order
clinical exam
Test
Self-report, clinical interview, collateral information, and behavioral observation are sufficient for screening and to establish a diagnosis.
Objective findings, based on physical exam and laboratory testing, tend to be normal.[15]
Result
meets the diagnostic criteria for recurrent major depression or bipolar disorder with seasonal variability for at least 2 years
Tests to consider
blood metabolic panel
Test
Laboratory testing or imaging studies are not typically indicated for SAD.
May be indicated for severe clinical presentations to rule out metabolic disorders as a contributory factor (e.g., diabetes mellitus, hypercalcemia).
Result
typically normal
serum thyroid-stimulating hormone
Test
Laboratory testing or imaging studies are not typically indicated for SAD.
May be indicated for severe clinical presentations to rule out hypothyroidism as a contributory factor.
Result
typically normal
toxicology screen (urine and blood)
Test
Laboratory testing or imaging studies are not typically indicated for SAD.
Toxicology screening may be indicated to determine whether alcohol or illicit substances are contributing to the clinical presentation.
In this situation, a toxicology screen typically involves urinary and blood screen for alcohol, but may also include screening for illicit substances.
The presence of alcohol establishes its use rather than misuse, but this may help to determine whether alcohol is contributing to the presentation in any way.
Result
may be positive if alcohol or illicit drugs are contributory factors
Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer