New biologic tools in psychiatry

A variety of tests are used in the research setting, some have a role in clinical practice and others may be used in the clinic at some future time (Table 3). Genetic testing for CYP-450 enzymes with the AmpliChip is starting to penetrate clinical research, and guidelines will be elaborated soon to help clinicians in its use. The other tools are in earlier stages of clinical application. Time will tell whether these tools can prove their effectiveness and diagnostic specificity. In addition, they will have to become cost-effective to gain payer support. If these tools prove to advance our ability to diagnose and treat mental illness, our role will extend to educating the patients, the public, and the service planners about them.