1) Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is an enzyme involved in purine metabolism that is present in many tissues, especially lymphocytes and macrophages. It plays a role in the immune system.
2) ADA levels are often elevated in tuberculosis infections, especially tuberculous pleural effusions and ascites. ADA tests on these fluids can help diagnose tuberculosis with high sensitivity and specificity.
3) For tuberculous pleural effusions, an ADA level over 45 IU/L indicates tuberculosis with 100% sensitivity and specificities over 90%. For tuberculous ascites, an ADA level over 33-39 IU/L also indicates tuberculosis with near 100% sensitivity and over 90%