Sweat Test
Advertisement
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
Health's Top Stories
Get a weekly look at the most popular stories on Health.com.
Sweat Test
content provided by
Healthwise
Results
A sweat test measures the amount of salt chemicals (sodium and chloride) in sweat. Generally, chloride (sweat chloride) is measured.
Results are usually available in 1 or 2 days. Normal results vary from lab to lab.
| Normal: | Less than 40 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) |
|---|---|
| Borderline: | 40–60 mmol/L |
| Abnormal: | More than 60 mmol/L |
Many conditions can change sodium and chloride levels. Your health professional will discuss any significant abnormal results with you in relation to your symptoms and medical history.
The test results do not indicate how severe the cystic fibrosis is. The test only shows if a person could have the disease.
Abnormal (high) values
High values:
- Usually mean a person has cystic fibrosis. Some people with cystic fibrosis have borderline or even normal sweat chloride levels.
- May be caused by other conditions. However, the sweat test
is not used to diagnose these conditions, which include:
- Adrenal gland problems, such as adrenal insufficiency or Addison's disease.
- Hypothyroidism.
- Kidney failure.
PREVIOUS
Last Updated:
June 26, 2007- Author:
- Debby Golonka, MPH
- Medical Review:
- Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Susanna McColley, MD - Pediatric Pulmonology
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
