
ADA (Adenosine Deaminase), Serum









The ADA (Adenosine Deaminase), Serum test is a blood test used to measure the level of adenosine deaminase, an enzyme vital to the functioning of the immune system. This test helps diagnose conditions like tuberculosis (TB) and assess immune system disorders, particularly those affecting white blood cells.













Understanding ADA (Adenosine Deaminase), Serum
Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is an enzyme that plays a key role in purine metabolism, which is important for the breakdown of nucleotides (building blocks of DNA and RNA) in the body. It is primarily found in the liver, kidneys, and immune cells, especially lymphocytes. ADA is involved in the immune response and helps regulate the growth and function of T-cells, a type of white blood cell critical for immune defense. The ADA (Adenosine Deaminase), Serum test is commonly used to evaluate the presence of infections, particularly tuberculosis, which can cause inflammation and fluid accumulation in the lungs.
The ADA (Adenosine Deaminase), Serum test is recommended when a doctor suspects an infection such as tuberculosis, especially when there are signs of a lung infection or pleural effusion (fluid buildup around the lungs). Symptoms may include cough, chest pain, fever, shortness of breath, night sweats, etc. This test is also used to evaluate other conditions where the immune system might be compromised or overactive, such as in autoimmune diseases or certain types of cancers. Additionally, it is done when there are risk factors for TB, such as close contact with a TB-infected person, as well as to monitor treatment progress for infections like tuberculosis.
No special preparation is required for this test. However, inform the doctor about all the medications or supplements being taken, as these may affect the test results, potentially requiring adjustments or temporary discontinuation. Narrate the complete medical history to help doctors relate the clinical and laboratory findings.
Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Do not self-medicate. Always consult the doctor to understand the test results correctly. The insights from ADA (Adenosine Deaminase), Serum test will help doctors formulate the overall treatment plans.
Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.
What does ADA (Adenosine Deaminase), Serum measure?
The ADA (Adenosine Deaminase), Serum test measures the level of adenosine deaminase enzyme (ADA) in the blood or body fluids (like pleural fluid, peritoneal fluid, pericardial fluid, etc.). ADA plays a key role in the immune system by helping regulate the function of T lymphocytes, which are vital for fighting infections. High ADA levels are typically associated with tuberculosis, as the body's immune response to the infection increases ADA production. Elevated ADA can also be seen in other diseases involving the immune system, such as certain cancers and immune deficiencies. On the contrary, low levels of ADA can indicate a weakened immune response, which may occur in conditions like immunodeficiencies or after immunosuppressive therapy.
Therefore, getting tested with the ADA (Adenosine Deaminase), Serum test helps doctors evaluate a wide range of infections and immune-related disorders.





FAQs related to ADA (Adenosine Deaminase), Serum
- Hershfield M, Tarrant T. Adenosine Deaminase Deficiency. 2006 Oct 3 [Updated 2024 Mar 7]. In: Adam MP, Feldman J, Mirzaa GM, et al., editors. GeneReviews® [Internet]. Seattle (WA): University of Washington, Seattle; 1993-2024. Available from:
- Aggarwal AN, Agarwal R, Sehgal IS, Dhooria S. Adenosine deaminase for diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2019 Mar 26;14(3):e0213728. [Accessed 26 Nov. 2024]. Available From:
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