title: The role of laboratory testing in the evaluation of headache.
abstract: Blood tests have a minor role in headache management and that role is limited to a few secondary headache conditions. In headache, as with any symptom, laboratory tests should be chosen based on solid clues derived from the targeted history and physical examination. A shotgun approach to blood tests that includes rare diseases or those with low local prevalence frequently yields false-positive results, which exposes the patient to the expense, anxiety, and risk inherent in misdiagnosis. Keep it simple and do not forget about spinal fluid.
authors: Department of Neurology, University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine, Independence, MO 64055, USA. charles.d.donohoe@gmail.com
authors: Charles D
authors: CD
authors: Donohoe
mesh_terms: D002555:Cerebrospinal Fluid; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D051271:Headache Disorders, Secondary / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology*; D006403:Hematologic Tests; D006801:Humans; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000379:methods*; D015813:Substance Abuse Detection