Evaluating the efficacy of adenosine deaminase in pleural fluid as an early indicator for tuberculous pleural effusion

Abstract

Background: Tuberculous pleural effusion (TPE) is a prominent clinical manifestation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Traditional diagnostic markers often face challenges in sensitivity or specificity, necessitating the exploration of newer, more effective biomarkers. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic potential of adenosine deaminase (ADA) in pleural fluid as an early indicator for TPE and to analyze its correlation with interferongamma (IFNγ) levels. Materials and Methods: We conducted a case–control study involving 100 patients: 50 diagnosed with TPE (cases) and 50 with non-TPE (controls). Pleural fluid samples from these patients were subjected to ADA and IFNγ level assessments using standardized protocols. Routine TB markers were concurrently examined. Results: The findings indicated significantly heightened ADA levels compared to controls in cases. IFNγ levels were similarly elevated in patients versus controls. A weak positive correlation was established between ADA and IFNγ in cases with an R-value of 0.1016. Conclusion: Our study underscores the potential of ADA in pleural fluid as a promising early diagnostic marker for TPE. Although the correlation with IFNγ is weak, it reinforces the proposition of combining multiple biomarkers to enhance diagnostic precision.