🔬 What is the Test?
The Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) CSF Test measures the level of ADA enzyme in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). ADA plays a role in the immune response, and elevated levels in CSF may indicate tuberculous meningitis (TBM) or other central nervous system (CNS) infections.
📊 Normal Ranges:
CSF ADA Level: < 10 U/L
Elevated ADA (>10 U/L) may suggest TB meningitis or other infections
(Ranges may vary based on laboratory standards.)
🎯 Purpose of the Test:
✅ Helps diagnose tuberculous meningitis (TBM)
✅ Differentiates TBM from viral or bacterial meningitis
✅ Assists in identifying chronic CNS infections
✅ Evaluates patients with neurological symptoms and CSF abnormalities
🩺 When is it Recommended?
🔹 Suspected cases of TB meningitis (persistent fever, headache, confusion, neck stiffness)
🔹 Patients with abnormal CSF findings (increased white cells, low glucose)
🔹 Unexplained chronic CNS infections
🔹 Differentiation between bacterial, viral, and TB meningitis
📝 How is the Test Done?
CSF sample is collected via lumbar puncture (spinal tap).
The CSF is analyzed for ADA enzyme activity.
Higher ADA levels suggest TB meningitis, while lower levels indicate non-TB causes.
⚠️ What Do Abnormal Results Mean?
📉 Low ADA Levels (<10 U/L):
Less likely to be TB meningitis
May indicate viral or bacterial meningitis
📈 High ADA Levels (>10 U/L):
Strongly suggests tuberculous meningitis (TBM)
May also be elevated in fungal or chronic CNS infections
🔍 Infographic Design Idea:
Medical-themed colors (blue, white, and red)
Illustration of a lumbar puncture (CSF collection process)
Flowchart differentiating TBM from other meningitis types
Table summarizing normal vs. abnormal ADA levels