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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
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Sputum direct fluorescent antibody (DFA)DefinitionSputum direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) is a test that looks for microorganisms in lung secretions. Alternative NamesDirect immunofluorescence test; Direct fluorescent antibody - sputumWhy the Test is PerformedYour doctor may order this test if you have signs of certain lung infections or pneumonias. How the Test is PerformedYou will produce a sputum sample from your lungs by coughing up mucus from deep inside your lungs. (The mucus is not the same as saliva or spit from the mouth.) In the laboratory, antibodies that have been chemically linked to a fluorescent dye are added to the sample. Such antibodies are considered "flagged." They will attach to specific antigens -- in this case, the microorganism against which they were formed. If the specific microorganism is present, a bright glow (fluorescence) can be seen by use of a special microscope. How to Prepare for the TestIf coughing does not produce sputum, a breathing treatment may be given before the test to trigger sputum production. How the Test Will FeelThere is no discomfort. RisksThere are no risks. Normal ResultsNormally, there is no antigen-antibody reaction. What Abnormal Results MeanAbnormal results may be due to an infection, such as Legionnaire's disease or mycoplasmal pneumonia.
Review Date: 5/29/2007 Reviewed By: Daniel R Alexander, MD, Department of Internal Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Leonardtown, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.  |
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Please note: only your personal physician or other health professional you consult can best advise you on matters of your health based on your medical history, your family medical history, your medication history, and how information from any of these databases may apply to you. Neither University of Cincinnati (NetWellness) nor any party involved in creating, producing or delivering this web site shall be liable for any damages arising out of access to or use of this web site, or any errors or omissions in the content thereof. (More) |