Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) (Body Fluid)

Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) is an enzyme involved in purine metabolism and is closely associated with cell-mediated immunity, particularly T-lymphocyte activity. Elevated ADA levels in body fluids are strongly suggestive of tuberculosis (TB), especially in pleural, ascitic, pericardial, or cerebrospinal fluids.

The ADA body fluid test is widely used to differentiate tuberculous effusions from non-tuberculous causes such as malignancy or bacterial infections. It is a rapid, cost-effective supportive test and is commonly interpreted alongside clinical findings, imaging studies, microbiological tests, and cytology for accurate diagnosis.