The evaluation of depression begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Usually, the physical examination is normal.

Testing may be necessary to identify medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms.

Tests that may be used to evaluate depression include:

• Complete blood count
• Liver profile
• Kidney profile
• Glucose tolerance testing
• Thyroid profile
• Drug screening:
• Checking therapeutic drug levels
• Testing for drug abuse
• Serum folate
• Vitamin B12 level

Less common tests that may be used to evaluate depression include:

• CT scan of the brain
• MRI scan of the brain
• SPECT scanning of the brain:
• A newer method that may provide earlier detection of stroke in some cases
• PET scanning of the brain:
• Detects levels of brain activity
• EEG
• Lumbar puncture with spinal fluid analysis

For more information:

• Bipolar disorder evaluation
• Seasonal affective disorder evaluation
• Postpartum depression evaluation
• Menopause evaluation
• Adjustment disorder evaluation