Basic Laboratory

Results

Rationale

FBC

White cell count      
Neutrophil count     
Haemoglobin         
Mean cell volume     
Platelets                

7.6

10^9 
4.1
139
89
313

Infection or blood dyscrasia can be a possible cause of dementia-like symptoms, but Dr Zheng’s results are normal.

Vitamin B12

546

A vitamin-B12 level should be obtained to evaluate for a reversible cause of dementia-like symptoms. Dr Zheng’s levels are within normal limits, so this is not the cause of his memory problems.

Kidney function tests

Creatinine               
Urea                        

97
8

Renal function is assessed to rule out metabolic disturbance or kidney dysfunction that can cause dementia-like symptoms. Dr Zheng’s tests are normal.

Urea and Electrolytes

Sodium                 
Potassium              
Calcium                 

142
3.7
1.2

Electrolytes disturbance (eg hyponataemia) is a common cause of confusion, but not in Dr Zheng’s case – his results are within normal range.

Liver Function Test

26
17
34
88
67
34

Liver dysfunction is a possible cause of dementia-like symptoms, but once again, Dr Zheng’s results are normal.

Glucose

Glucose 

5.8

Hypoglycaemia can cloud cognitive function and therefore simulate dementia. Results show this is not the case for Dr Zheng.

ESR

20

20

To rule out potential reversible causes of dementia-like symptoms, by indirectly measuring how much inflammation is in the body. Dr Zheng’s result is within normal range.

Thyroid function test

TSH 
Free T4

1.6
1.1

Metabolic disturbances are a possible cause of dementia-like symptoms, but Dr Zheng’s results are normal.

PSA

not ordered

Not required in the investigation for dementia – but reasonable test to consider if  Dr Zheng has prostatism.

Lipids

Cholesterol 
Hdl 
Ldl 
Triglyceride 

4.6
1.2
1.7
3.2

May be considered to assess Dr Zheng’s vascular risk.

Urinalysis

Not ordered

The UA is not necessary for the diagnosis of dementia – but may be useful if UTI is suspected.