Understanding Lab Tests for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. PTSD is diagnosed through clinical evaluation and psychological assessments, not through blood tests. However, laboratory testing plays a supporting role in understanding how trauma affects the body's stress response systems.
Recommended Test
Catecholamines, Fractionated, Plasma (Dopamine)
This test measures catecholamines including norepinephrine and dopamine in the blood. PTSD can lead to increased norepinephrine levels, which may contribute to symptoms such as hyperarousal, nightmares, and intrusive memories. Monitoring these stress hormones can provide insight into the body's physiological response to trauma.
2907 reviews
Why Blood Testing Can Be Helpful for PTSD
While there is no single blood test to diagnose PTSD, testing is fundamental for assessing how trauma impacts the body's neurochemical balance. PTSD can alter stress hormone levels and neurotransmitter function, and blood tests can help healthcare providers monitor these physiological changes and guide comprehensive treatment approaches.
Understanding the Connection
The stress response system becomes dysregulated in PTSD, often leading to persistent elevation of stress hormones like norepinephrine. This can create a state of chronic hypervigilance and contribute to the physical symptoms that often accompany PTSD, such as sleep disturbances, increased heart rate, and heightened startle response.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. PTSD requires comprehensive mental health treatment, and blood testing serves only as a supportive tool. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
