🔬 What is the Test?
The Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) Synovial Fluid Test measures ADA enzyme levels in joint (synovial) fluid. ADA is involved in the immune response, and elevated levels may indicate tuberculous arthritis (TB arthritis) or other inflammatory joint diseases.
📊 Normal Ranges:
Synovial Fluid ADA Level: < 30 U/L
Elevated ADA (> 30 U/L) may suggest TB arthritis or other infections
(Ranges may vary based on laboratory standards.)
🎯 Purpose of the Test:
✅ Helps diagnose tuberculous arthritis (TB arthritis)
✅ Differentiates TB arthritis from other joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA)
✅ Assists in identifying septic arthritis and other joint infections
✅ Evaluates unexplained joint pain, swelling, and effusion (fluid buildup)
🩺 When is it Recommended?
🔹 Patients with chronic joint swelling and pain
🔹 Unexplained joint effusion (fluid buildup in joints)
🔹 Suspected tuberculous arthritis cases
🔹 To rule out infectious vs. non-infectious causes of arthritis
📝 How is the Test Done?
Synovial fluid sample is collected via arthrocentesis (joint aspiration).
The fluid is analyzed for ADA enzyme activity.
Higher ADA levels suggest TB arthritis, while lower levels may indicate non-TB causes.
⚠️ What Do Abnormal Results Mean?
📉 Low ADA Levels (<30 U/L):
Less likely to be TB arthritis
May indicate osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or non-infectious inflammation
📈 High ADA Levels (>30 U/L):
Suggests tuberculous arthritis
May also be elevated in bacterial septic arthritis or other inflammatory conditions
🔍 Infographic Design Idea:
Medical-themed colors (blue, white, and red)
Illustration of a joint with fluid buildup
Flowchart differentiating TB arthritis from other arthritis types
Table summarizing normal vs. abnormal ADA levels