ditto to the other posts - yes, they will most likely start with a sweat test ... be very leery of the results (unless they are clearly positive - if that is the case you can be certain it is CF) but if they are anything above 20 or so, I'd push for full genetic testing.... see my blog for full details about sweat testing.
under 40 = normal
40-60 = borderline
60 and above = positive
The problem is this "real people" just don't always follow this chart so perfectly! My kids test out at 38 and 41.
Many people here have normal sweat tests and have genetic proof of two CF genes. Some people even have sweat test numbers down in the teens and single digits, (happens with less frequency, but does happen)
If there is any doubt be sure to be seen by a CFF doctor -- they are the most experienced and up to date on this stuff - most regular docs and pediatricians just are not up to speed on CF, they have outdated information and training and often times refuse to believe they are dealing with CF because it doesn't fit the information they were told or learned.
Hang in there, be sure to keep us posted.
Oh, your question of how long - depending on the facility sweat test results can be back with in a few hours to a few days. Be sure to ask how long it will take and tell them you want to know the number, not just positive or negative. For genetic testing it is usually 4-6 weeks - and again they like to usually start with the cheaper, smaller testing. It is very common to only search for 89 genes -- this is very foolish since there are nearly 1600 genes identified now, how can they possibly think searching for less than 100 can give you any confidence in knowing for sure you are not dealing with CF.
under 40 = normal
40-60 = borderline
60 and above = positive
The problem is this "real people" just don't always follow this chart so perfectly! My kids test out at 38 and 41.
Many people here have normal sweat tests and have genetic proof of two CF genes. Some people even have sweat test numbers down in the teens and single digits, (happens with less frequency, but does happen)
If there is any doubt be sure to be seen by a CFF doctor -- they are the most experienced and up to date on this stuff - most regular docs and pediatricians just are not up to speed on CF, they have outdated information and training and often times refuse to believe they are dealing with CF because it doesn't fit the information they were told or learned.
Hang in there, be sure to keep us posted.
Oh, your question of how long - depending on the facility sweat test results can be back with in a few hours to a few days. Be sure to ask how long it will take and tell them you want to know the number, not just positive or negative. For genetic testing it is usually 4-6 weeks - and again they like to usually start with the cheaper, smaller testing. It is very common to only search for 89 genes -- this is very foolish since there are nearly 1600 genes identified now, how can they possibly think searching for less than 100 can give you any confidence in knowing for sure you are not dealing with CF.