🔬 What is the Test?
The Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) Ascitic Fluid Test measures ADA enzyme levels in ascitic fluid (fluid in the abdominal cavity). High ADA levels can help diagnose tuberculous peritonitis (TB in the abdomen) or other infections and inflammatory conditions.
📊 Normal Ranges:
Ascitic Fluid ADA Level: < 30 U/L
Elevated ADA (>30-40 U/L) suggests tuberculosis (TB) or other infections
(Exact ranges may vary based on laboratory standards.)
🎯 Purpose of the Test:
✅ Helps diagnose tuberculous peritonitis (TB in the abdominal cavity)
✅ Differentiates TB ascites from other causes of ascitic fluid buildup (e.g., cirrhosis, cancer, heart failure)
✅ Assists in identifying bacterial or fungal peritonitis
✅ Supports early TB detection in high-risk individuals
🩺 When is it Recommended?
🔹 Patients with unexplained ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen)
🔹 Suspected cases of TB peritonitis (abdominal pain, fever, weight loss, swelling)
🔹 To distinguish between TB and cancer-related ascitic fluid buildup
🔹 In cases of persistent abdominal infections or inflammation
📝 How is the Test Done?
Paracentesis (a needle procedure) is used to collect ascitic fluid.
ADA levels are measured using biochemical enzyme analysis.
Elevated ADA suggests TB peritonitis, while lower levels may indicate other conditions.
⚠️ What Do Abnormal Results Mean?
📉 Low ADA Levels (<30 U/L):
Less likely to be TB peritonitis
May indicate cirrhosis, cancer, or heart failure
📈 High ADA Levels (>30-40 U/L):
Strongly suggests tuberculosis (TB) peritonitis
May also be elevated in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), lymphoma, or inflammatory diseases
🔍 Infographic Design Idea:
Medical-themed colors (blue, white, and red)
Illustration of an abdomen with fluid buildup
Flowchart differentiating TB peritonitis from other ascitic fluid causes
Table summarizing normal vs. abnormal ADA levels