Advancements in Sweat Testing Techniques for Cystic Fibrosis: From Classical to Novel Methods

Area of Science:

• Medical Diagnostics
• Biochemistry
• Genetics

Background:

• Sweat testing is crucial for cystic fibrosis (CF) diagnosis.
• The sweat chloride test (SCT) is the established gold standard.
• SCT faces limitations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), infant diagnosis, and intermediate results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review established and novel sweat-based diagnostic methods for CF.
• To evaluate their clinical utility, limitations, and applicability in diverse healthcare settings.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of sweat-based diagnostic approaches for CF.
• Focus on clinical utility, limitations, and relevance across healthcare settings.

Main Results:

• Sweat conductivity is a practical screening tool for CF, especially in LMICs.
• Advanced CFTR functional assays (e.g., nasal potential difference) are sensitive but complex.
• Emerging technologies like wearable sensors offer future diagnostic potential.

Conclusions:

• Integrating accessible screening with advanced sweat tests can enhance CF diagnosis.
• Improved diagnostic strategies are particularly needed for LMICs and complex cases.