Fall Propensity: Lab Test

2nd order laboratory parameters – depending on the results of the history, physical examination and obligatory laboratory parameters – for differential diagnostic clarification.

  • Small blood count – e.g., evidence of anemia (→ orthostatic hypotension or dizziness) or MCV ↑ (→ alcohol abuse).
  • Inflammatory parameters – CRP (C-reactive protein) or ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate).
  • Urine status (rapid test for: nitrite, protein, hemoglobin, erythrocytes, leukocytes) incl. sediment, if necessary urine culture (pathogen detection and resistogram, that is, testing of suitable antibiotics for sensitivity / resistance) – e.g. detection of glucosuria / sugar excretion in the urine (V. D. a. diabetic autonomic neuropathy) or a urinary tract infection.
  • Electrolytes – potassium, magnesium
  • Fasting glucose (fasting blood sugar)
  • Thyroid parameter TSH – if hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is suspected.
  • Gamma-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT, gamma-GT; GGT) [↑ → alcohol abuse).
  • Carbodeficient transferrin (CDT) ↑ (in chronic alcoholism)* .
  • Troponin T (TnT) – Highly specific is the detection of elevated troponin T and troponin I in blood serum, as they rise early after infarction. – In suspected silent myocardial infarction (heart attack).
  • Serum albumin (most important blood protein) – including suspected malnutrition (malnutrition).
  • Creatinine coefficient – to determine the nutritional status.

* With abstinence, the values normalize within 10-14 days.