How to Test Blood for Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that inhibits your ability to breath and digest food. There is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis, and CF sufferers can expect to live only about 30 to 40 years. Blood tests for the CF gene are your first line of defense against this deadly condition.
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Instructions
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Test Blood for Cystic Fibrosis or the CF Gene
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Talk to a doctor specializing in genetics about cystic fibrosis testing. People with a family history of CF, especially Caucasians, are particularly at risk of being carriers of the CF gene. Doctors will take a blood sample to look for abnormalities in the CF gene that may lead to cystic fibrosis.
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Test your newborn's blood at birth. Newborn testing is critical because when the condition is caught early and with proper treatment you can reduce your length of stay in the hospital, improve the child's lung functions and even extend life expectancy. The latest research reveals the median life expectancy for people with CF to be about 37 years.
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Research the different types of tests and know what test results reveal. In newborns, for example, look for extremely high levels of the digestive enzyme immunoreactive trypsinogen. High concentrations of this enzyme in the blood are warning signs of cystic fibrosis.
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Talk to your doctor about other fluid tests, in addition to blood tests, that can be done to detect cystic fibrosis. Chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis are excellent early detection tests that can be performed during pregnancy.
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Consider a less invasive cystic fibrosis test. Sweat tests are commonly used to detect cystic fibrosis. When abnormally high levels of salt are found in the sweat, doctors know that cystic fibrosis is a possibility. Two positive sweat tests done at different times are a very strong indicator of CF. Once you have two positive sweat tests, you'll need to get a blood test done as soon as possible.
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Prepare yourself for a blood test. Ask your doctor if there are any foods, liquids or medications to avoid before blood tests are done. Taking certain medications prior to a blood test may negate the results.
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Prepare yourself psychologically for your cystic fibrosis blood test. Know that if you have a family history of the condition, there is a real possibility that you may be a carrier and this may impact your decision to have children.
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Tips & Warnings
If you or your child has been diagnoses with CF, find a cystic fibrosis support group near you.
