How is Cystic Fibrosis Diagnosed?

Your family doctor will have to conduct a through physical exam of yourself as well as look at medical records from family members. The doctor will also have to conduct many tests to ensure an accurate diagnosis. One test is the sweat test, this is the most effective in detecting CF. This tests for the amount of sodium within your perspiration. This test is conducted by having a doctor rub a small amount of the chemical pilocarpine onto your arm or leg. An electrode is then attached to that spot, this electrode produces a mild current that produces sweat. After this, they attach a gauze pad or filter paper to the spot and wrap it in plastic. After about 30 or 40 minutes, the doctors remove the plastic so the sweat produced in on the paper or gauze and then can be further analyzed. This test is usually done multiple times and sweat with high contents of sodium is usually CF. Chest X-rays can also be done to show any scarring or inflammation of the lungs. Sinus X-rays can also be conducted to show signs of sinusitis. Basic lung function tests can be completed such as testingyour lung capacity, how quickly you breathe air out of your lungs and how well your lungs add oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from your blood. These tests can all be completed to give doctors accurate information to base their diagnosis on.