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Sweat test

Sweat test

Overview

The sweat electrolyte test is a test that measures the level of chloride in sweat. In children, increased sodium and chloride concentrations in sweat can indicate cystic fibrosis, an inherited disease that affects the respiratory and digestive system.

Review Date 4/25/2023

Updated by: Charles I. Schwartz, MD, FAAP, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, General Pediatrician at PennCare for Kids, Phoenixville, PA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.