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