phenytoin Test

Phenytoin is an antiepileptic drug occassionally utilized in the treatment of some seizure disorders also known as epilepsy. Seizure conditions affect the brains ability to transmit electrical impulses and regulate nerve activity. Seizures are abnormal electrical discharges in the brain that temporarily distort the normal message transmission to the body. They produce alterations in consciousness, cause odd rhythmic or repetitive movements, jerking or twitching of limbs, and/or can lead to convulsions (a sudden uncontrollable attack) that contract muscles throughout the body. This test measures the amount of phenytoin in the blood. In the blood phenytoin is highly bound to serum proteins. The unbound or free is pharmacologically active. Phenytoin works by reducing the electrical conductance among brain cells, blocking excessive electrochemical activity occurring in the brain during a seizure. Phenytoin levels have to be observed as very low levels of phenytoin can lead to seizures in an affected person and high levels of phenytoin result in phenytoin toxicity.

24 to 36 Hours

The phenytoin test diagnosis the phenytoin concentration in the blood, to maintain a therapeutic level, and to diagnose potential for toxicity. Phenytoin is utilized in seizures to control and treat them; that may begin during or after surgery to the brain or nervous system

Symptoms observed are:

Slurred speech

Tremors

hirsutism

Low blood pressure

Swelling of the gums and/or lymph nodes

Insomnia

Nausea

Confusion

Difficulty swallowing

Fatigue

Rashes

changes in consciousness

Alterations in sight, smell, and taste

Uncontrolled muscular convulsions

Loss of balance and falling

Involuntary eye movement from side to side (nystagmus)

Preparatory instructions before the test *:

No Fasting Required.

No other special preparations required.

Specimen type: Serum (Blood Sample),

Specimen collection procedure: Venipuncture Collection of blood from a vein, usually from the arm.