New Type of Sweat Test Revealed to Diagnose Cystic Fibrosis

There are several ways to test for cystic fibrosis, the most standard is a sweat test. In cystic fibrosis patients, the salt content in their sweat is high. If a newborn screening comes back potentially positive or if there are symptoms of cystic fibrosis present, this test is performed. In newborns, it can be really difficult to get them to sweat the amount needed. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation recommends that these tests be done at an accredited facility to increase success. This assures that the technician performing the test has accurate ability to do so. It can greatly reduce the risk of error. The more experience the person has with this testing, the better chance for conclusive results. The margins are just that slim. The test is a harmless procedure for the patient, a bit of tingling at most. An electrode is attached painlessly to the skin. It stimulates sweat glands to become active and makes the patient sweat. The sweat is then collected and sent to a lab. Result turnaround times are usually within an hour depending on the circumstance and facility doing the testing.