A mother brings her adult son to your office, relating a history of two weeks of difficulty sleeping, irritability, and problems with relationships with others. He has also been very talkative, expressed a multitude of "great ideas" and just seems to "talk constantly." Several weeks ago, he seemed depressed. Which of the following diagnostic studies would be the most helpful in his evaluation?
- complete blood count
- random blood sugar
- free T4 level
- liver function studies
- head CT scan
Answer: C
Free T4 level
This question suggests bipolar disorder - thyroid function should be checked in all patients with a psych diagnosis
Know Your Content Blueprint
Bipolar disorder is covered as part of the PANCE Psychiatry Blueprint and Psychiatry (EOR): Depressive Disorders (Pearls)
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