Diagnostic utility of ADA and CBNAAT in tubercular pleural effusion

The diagnostic performance of Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) and Cartridge-Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (CBNAAT) in diagnosing tubercular pleural effusion (TPE) is of interest. Hence, a study was conducted over 18 months at LN Medical College and JK Hospital, Bhopal. The study involved 108 adult patients with TPE. Data shows that CBNAAT, although highly specific, had limited sensitivity, while ADA ≥40 IU/L demonstrated strong sensitivity. ADA levels were significantly higher in CBNAAT-positive participants, suggesting that combining both tests enhances diagnostic accuracy. This approach can help reduce the need for invasive procedures and improve timely treatment, especially in resource-limited settings. We show the importance of using ADA and CBNAAT together in the diagnosis of TPE.