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Updated: Aug 10, 2026

A Technique for Serial Collection of Cerebrospinal Fluid from the Cisterna Magna in Mouse
Published on: November 10, 2008
False positive of ADA determination in cerebrospinal fluid
Abstract:
The elevation of ADA in CSF is useful as a diagnostic means for detecting tuberculous meningitis, and in other etiologies such as lymphoma, neurosarcoidosis, fulminant bacterial meningitis, cryptococcal meningitis, neurobrucellosis and AIDS. We report an increase of ADA in CSF in association with SHA. In our case the total activity of ADA was the same as that obtained in serum, which can be interpreted among the false positives of the determination.
Insights
Adenosine deaminase (ADA) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) aids in diagnosing tuberculous meningitis and other neurological conditions. This study observed elevated ADA in CSF linked to spinal हड्डी arthropathy (SHA), potentially indicating a false positive.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Adenosine deaminase (ADA) levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are established biomarkers for tuberculous meningitis.
- Elevated ADA in CSF is also associated with various other neurological conditions, including lymphoma, neurosarcoidosis, bacterial meningitis, cryptococcal meningitis, neurobrucellosis, and AIDS.
Observation:
- This study reports an observed increase in ADA levels within the CSF.
- This elevation was specifically noted in association with spinal हड्डी arthropathy (SHA).
Findings:
- The total ADA activity measured in the CSF was comparable to that found in the serum.
- This finding suggests that the elevated CSF ADA in this case might represent a false positive result.
Implications:
- The results highlight the need for careful interpretation of CSF ADA levels, especially in the presence of conditions like SHA.
- Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms behind elevated CSF ADA in SHA and to differentiate true positives from potential false positives.

