Common blood tests ordered to help diagnose the underlying cause of visual and neurological symptoms.
Blood tests are often essential for diagnosing the cause of neuro-ophthalmic symptoms. Different conditions require different panels of tests.
Key Takeaways
- Help identify underlying causes of visual symptoms
- Different tests for different suspected conditions
- ESR and CRP crucial for giant cell arteritis
- Antibody tests for autoimmune conditions
- Results guide treatment decisions
Common Tests by Condition
Giant Cell Arteritis
- ESR (sed rate)—usually very elevated (>50-100)
- CRP—elevated
- Platelets—often elevated
- Hemoglobin—may show anemia
Myasthenia Gravis
- Acetylcholine receptor antibodies
- MuSK antibodies (if AChR negative)
- LRP4 antibodies
- Thyroid function tests
NMO and MOGAD
- AQP4-IgG (aquaporin-4 antibodies)—NMO
- MOG-IgG—MOGAD
- Best done during acute attack
Thyroid Eye Disease
- TSH
- Free T4, T3
- TSI (thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin)
- Anti-thyroid antibodies
Inflammatory/Autoimmune Workup
- ANA
- ANCA
- ACE level (sarcoidosis)
- Rheumatoid factor
Infectious Causes
- Syphilis serology (RPR, FTA-ABS)
- Lyme antibodies
- Bartonella antibodies (cat-scratch)
- HIV testing
Nutritional/Metabolic
- Vitamin B12
- Folate
- Homocysteine
- Glucose, HbA1c
When Results Are Normal
Normal blood tests don't always rule out disease:
- Some conditions have negative antibodies
- Tests may be normal early in disease
- Clinical diagnosis remains important
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Medically Reviewed Content
This article meets our editorial standards
- Written by:
- Hashemi Eye Care Medical Team
- Medically reviewed by:
- Board-Certified Neuro-Ophthalmologist (MD, Neuro-Ophthalmology)
- Last reviewed:
- January 30, 2025