Current status of sweat testing in North America. Results of the College of American Pathologists needs assessment survey.

The College of American Pathologists surveyed 5096 laboratories for information concerning collection and analytic methodologies used in the performance of the sweat test. The test measures the concentration of electrolytes in sweat and is an essential criterion for the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. An 83% response rate was achieved on the needs assessment survey, representing the first large-scale, national study of sweat testing practices. Nineteen percent of the respondents perform sweat testing in their laboratory, and the majority of the respondents analyze the sweat for chloride concentration. Fifty-nine percent of the laboratories performing sweat testing indicated an interest in participating in proficiency testing for sweat analysis. The information gathered from the needs assessment survey will be used to develop a comprehensive proficiency testing program to provide feedback and education to laboratories performing this critical diagnostic test.