What's new in laboratory testing procedures for psychiatrists?

ABSTRACT

The potential uses of the laboratory in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment expanded greatly over the decade of the 70s. This paper focuses on some of the newer areas of neurobiological research that may become clinically available to psychiatrists during the decade of the 80s. Research on state markers such as platelet serotonin and MAO levels, CSF metabolites, endorphins, MHPG, TRH and DST is discussed, followed by information on possible trait markers such as HLA gene typing, red blood cell membranes, and beta adrenergic receptor assays. Through these areas of study it is hoped that there will come more accurate psychiatric diagnosis and improved response to treatment.