ADENOSINE DEAMINASE; ADA, FLUID

What this test checks

Measures an enzyme called Adenosine Deaminase in fluid drawn from the chest, abdomen, or around the heart. High levels strongly suggest tuberculosis.

Why do people get this test?

Doctors order this when a fluid collection has been found (in the lung, around the heart, or in the abdomen) and TB is suspected. It is a faster clue than waiting for a TB culture.

When you should consider this test

• Doctor has drained fluid from chest, abdomen, or joint
• Suspected tuberculosis with effusion
• Unexplained fluid collection in the body

How to prepare

Performed only on a fluid sample that a doctor has already collected. No fasting needed.