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Routine blood studies are indicated to identify the more common metabolic causes of seizures such as abnormalities in electrolytes, glucose, calcium, or magnesium, and hepatic or renal disease. A screen for toxins in blood and urine should be obtained especially when no clear precipitating factor has been identified. A lumbar puncture is indicated if there is any suspicion of CNS infection such as meningitis or encephalitis; it is mandatory in HIV-infected pts even in the absence of symptoms or signs suggesting infection. Testing for autoantibodies in the serum and CSF should be considered in pts presenting with an aggressive form of epilepsy associated with cognitive disturbances.

Outline

Section 14. Neurology