The value of laboratory monitoring for children with epilepsy
Routine serum antiepileptic (AED) drug levels and laboratory monitoring for drug toxicity have crept into clinical practice. The value of these routines is uncertain. Serum drug levels do not clearly improve seizure control, predict adverse effects, or influence compliance. Routine laboratory testing appears neither sensitive or specific for significant drug toxicity. Recommendations are made to rationalize the use of these routine tests for children with epilepsy.
Dooley
JM
Neurology Division, IWK Hospital for Children, Halifax, Nova Scotia.