Sweat Test for Cystic Fibrosis

Submitted by Twins plus Two on Fri, 02/11/2011 - 15:42.
Name Of Test Or Operation: 
Sweat Test for Cystic Fibrosis
Other Names Test Or Operation Known By: 
Chloride Sweat test
Reason The Test Or Operation Was Carried Out: 
To determine whether a child has Cystic Fibrosis
What Was Your Experience Of The Test/Operation: 
An area of skin on the arm will be washed and dried & two electrodes are attached with elastic straps. One of these contains a disc with medication that stimulates the sweat glands to produce sweat. The medication is pushed through the skin by an electric current. After this is completed, the electrodes are removed and the skin is cleansed. A special sweat collection device is then attached to the skin surface in the area where the sweat glands were stimulated. It's taped to the skin to keep it from moving. The sweat that's collected turns blue when it comes into contact with blue dye and is then analysed.
Next Steps: 
If results are positive or unclear a blood test may be done.
After Care: 
Your child's arm may continue to sweat for a few hours after and be a little red. The test is painless though.
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