Adenosine deaminase (ADA) test
Quick answer: An ADA test measures adenosine deaminase, an enzyme that rises when certain immune cells are active. It is most often done on fluid from around the lungs, abdomen or brain to help detect tuberculosis affecting those areas.
- SampleFluid or blood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes for blood; 15–30 minutes for a fluid procedure
- Before the testYour doctor collects fluid samples during a procedure; for a blood sample, no special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1For fluid, your doctor collects a sample from the chest, abdomen or spine using a needle
- 2Local anaesthetic is usually used to numb the area first
- 3For blood, a sample is drawn from a vein in your arm
- 4The lab measures ADA activity in the fluid or blood
What your results can mean
Reading your report
The result is read together with other tests and your symptoms, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level in fluid can be seen with tuberculosis affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen or brain, but it can also rise with some other infections and cancers. A normal level makes TB less likely but does not rule it out.
Who usually has this test
People with unexplained fluid around the lungs, in the abdomen or around the brain, where tuberculosis is a possible cause.
Risks and aftercare
A blood sample may bruise; a fluid procedure can cause some soreness, and your doctor will explain its specific risks.
Names and options
Also called: ADA, ADA fluid, ADA serum
Options
- Body fluid
- Blood (serum)
Listed by the hospital as
- ADENOSINE DEAMINASE, FLUID
- ADENOSINE DEAMINASE, SERUM
Questions about this test
Does a high ADA in pleural fluid mean I have TB?
Not always. A high ADA supports TB, especially in India where TB is common, but some infections, lymphoma and other conditions can also raise it. Doctors look at the fluid's cells, cultures and your scans too.
Is a blood ADA test useful for TB?
A blood ADA test is less useful than a fluid test for diagnosing TB. Doctors mostly rely on fluid ADA, along with other tests.
How is fluid collected for an ADA test?
A doctor uses a thin needle, often guided by ultrasound, to draw fluid from the chest, abdomen or lower back. The area is usually numbed first.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.