Abstract

Introduction: Pulmonary TB is the commonest form of TB, and a definite microbiological diagnosis is possible in most instances through sputum microscopy, culture and the use of cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification tests (CBNAAT) and fluid ADA levels. The present study was undertaken to estimate the levels of pleural fluid ADA levels and CBNAAT testing in patients with exudative pleural effusion and to study the diagnostic accuracy of ADA and CBNAAT testing in suspected cases of tubercular exudative pleural effusion. Materials and methods: After obtaining informed consent, 60 cases of pleural effusion were subjected for following Investigations-Medical history taking, full clinical examination, Sputum for AFB smear and culture, diagnostic thoracocentesis under aseptic conditions. Aspirated pleural fluid was sent to biochemical tests sugar, protein, LDH, microbiological tests –AFB stain, total cytological count and differential count. All patients fulfilling Light’s criteria for exudative pleural effusion were further subjected to ADA estimation and CBNAAT testing.

Description