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Adenosine deaminase in pleural effusions.
M V Nagaraja1, P K Ashokan, H M Hande
1Department of Medicine, Kasturba Medical College Hospital, Manipal, SK District, Karnataka State.
The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India
|March 1, 1992
Summary
Adenosine deaminase (ADA) levels in pleural fluid are significantly higher in tuberculous pleural effusion cases. Measuring pleural fluid ADA is a reliable, non-invasive method for diagnosing tuberculosis-related pleural effusions.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Pleural effusion is a common clinical condition with diverse etiologies.
- Distinguishing tuberculous pleural effusion from other causes is crucial for timely and appropriate treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of adenosine deaminase (ADA) levels in pleural fluid for differentiating tuberculous pleural effusion.
Main Methods:
- Serum and pleural fluid ADA levels were measured in 30 patients with pleural effusion and 18 healthy controls.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare ADA levels between groups and assess diagnostic accuracy.
Main Results:
- Serum ADA levels were significantly elevated in patients with pleural effusion compared to healthy controls (P < 0.001).
- Pleural fluid ADA levels were significantly higher in tuberculous pleural effusions (always >50 U/L) than in non-tubercular effusions (P < 0.001).
- The ratio of pleural fluid ADA to serum ADA did not aid in etiological diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Pleural fluid ADA estimation is a safe, simple, and reliable non-invasive test.
- This test effectively distinguishes tuberculous from non-tubercular pleural effusions.