Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to N B Coffman.
Lithium has been used in the treatment of mania since 1949. Although its effectiveness is well recognized, the mechanism by which it stabilizes manic behavior is not well understood. In addition, it has some serious toxic properties combined with a narrow therapeutic range. For this reason, monitoring of serum lithium levels is mandatory. Suggested mechanisms of action and protocols for monitoring of serum levels are presented.
Scientific developments in molecular biology enable clinical laboratory testing to directly examine genetic information coded in biologic specimens. These efforts, accomplished by the use of DNA probe technology in the in situ hybridization and other tests will allow for the specific identification of pathogens; recognition of genetic diseases; and the critical evaluation of the genetic basis of cancer. The authors discuss the concepts and uses of DNA testing.
The justification for blood ethanol testing springs from the ubiquitous abuse of alcoholic beverages. Those dealing with patients who abuse alcohol must understand the correlations between dose, time, blood level, and behavior. Enumerated here are the strengths of various testing methods and the requisites for legally defensible testing. The challenge remains to determine blood ethanol levels in such a manner that the results are scientifically valid and legally defensible.
Modern medical technology has made available a complex array of testing methods for drugs of abuse. The gathering of the best information from these methods demands that the clinician be familiar with the different testing protocols. In this, the third article in a monthly series, the authors discuss the more common and useful tests and describe their use for optimal results.