The sweat chloride test is used to help diagnose Cystic Fibrosis. This test must be scheduled with the General Chemistry department at (407) 303-8561.

Instructions

  1. The technician will clean the site on your arm where the testing will be performed.
  2. A mild electrical current will be applied for about 5 minutes.  This current helps produce sweat.  Some patients feel a slight tingling where the electrodes are placed.
  3. After 5 minutes, the electrodes will be taken off.
  4. A gauze pad will be placed on the skin and securely covered with a piece of sterile plastic tape.  It will then be wrapped with elastic gauze to keep it warm.  This gauze wrap should remain in place about 30 minutes.
  5. It is important that the gauze not be moved as the sweat is collected.
  6. During the 30-minute wait, you may walk around or get something to eat or drink.  Mild activity is allowed also, as long as the gauze is not moved.
  7. The lab personnel will remove the gauze after 30 minutes.
  8. Your skin may be gently cleansed with soap and water.  Some patients may have some redness where the test was performed.  This is normal and will disappear with time.