Diagnosis of Cystic fibrosis

Based on the symptoms that are observed, CF can be diagnosed using the following tests.

•    Newborn Screening-Blood tests can show whether the pancreas of the newborn are working. Genetic tests help to determine the infant’s CFTR gene is defective.
•    Sweat test-In the sweat test, sweat is induced using a chemical and a mild current of electricity is provided using an electrode. The sweat produced is tested to measure the salt present. CF is confirmed if there are high levels of salt present.
•    Prenatal Screening-Amniocentesis and CVS sampling (chorionic villus) can be done in a pregnant woman to determine whether the fetus has CF.

Tests for Cystic fibrosis

Once cystic fibrosis is confirmed in a person, the following tests can be done to check the functioning of various organs and to what extent they have been affected.

•    Genetic test-to determine what kind of CFTR mutation is causing CF.
•    Chest X-ray- This helps to determine whether your lungs have been affected (scarred or inflamed) by cystic fibrosis.
•    Sinus X-ray- Shows whether you are developing sinusitis.
•    Lung function test- Helps to determine whether your lungs are working normally and to full capacity.
•    Sputum culture- Presence of the bacteria mucoid pseudomonas indicates that cystic fibrosis is in the advanced stage.