The Quantiferon-TB Gold Test, also known as the Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA), is a blood test used to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB).
The Quantiferon-TB Gold test measures the immune response to TB antigens by detecting interferon-gamma (IFN-?) in the blood. When immune cells in a person who has been exposed to TB come in contact with TB antigens, they release IFN-? as part of their immune response. The Quantiferon-TB Gold test uses this reaction to assess whether TB bacteria may be present. Unlike the traditional Mantoux tuberculin skin test, Quantiferon-TB Gold is not influenced by prior Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination, which is common in many countries and can sometimes cause false positives in skin tests. This makes the Quantiferon-TB Gold a highly accurate test for diagnosing both latent and active TB.
Quantiferon-TB Gold is ideal for individuals at higher risk for TB exposure or infection, including: B)People with Compromised Immune Systems: Individuals with HIV, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy may benefit from regular TB screening. C)Individuals with Close Contact with TB Cases: Those living or working closely with TB patients are at a higher risk of latent or active TB infection. D)Immigrants from High TB Prevalence Areas: People coming from regions with high rates of TB may require testing as part of immigration or employment screening. E)People with Prior BCG Vaccination: As the Quantiferon test is unaffected by the BCG vaccine, it is a reliable choice for screening individuals previously vaccinated. The Quantiferon-TB Gold test is a straightforward blood test that generally includes the following steps: The Quantiferon-TB Gold test has multiple advantages over traditional skin tests, including: Preparation and Procedure
No special preparation is required for the Quantiferon-TB Gold test, and you can continue with regular eating, drinking, and medications unless otherwise advised by your healthcare provider. The test involves a simple blood draw and typically takes only a few minutes. Interpreting Quantiferon-TB Gold Test Results
Positive: This result indicates a TB infection, which could be either latent or active. Further tests, such as a chest X-ray and sputum culture, may be required to determine if the infection is active.
Negative: A negative result suggests no TB infection.
Indeterminate or Borderline: This result may occur if there is an insufficient immune response in the blood sample. A repeat test may be necessary.
How the Quantiferon-TB Gold Test Works?
Blood Collection: Blood samples are taken and placed into special tubes containing antigens specific to the TB bacteria.
Incubation: The tubes are incubated to allow immune cells in the blood to react with the TB antigens.
Measurement of IFN-? Levels: After incubation, the amount of interferon-gamma released by the blood cells is measured to determine the presence of TB infection.
Interpretation: A positive result suggests a TB infection, while a negative result indicates no evidence of TB infection.
Results are generally ready within 24 to 48 hours, and a healthcare provider will interpret the findings in the context of your overall health.Why Choose Quantiferon-TB Gold over Traditional Tests?
High Specificity and Sensitivity: It is highly accurate and reduces the risk of false positives due to prior BCG vaccination.
Single Visit Testing: Unlike skin tests that require a follow-up visit, Quantiferon-TB Gold only requires a single blood draw.
Effective for High-Risk Populations: It is ideal for people with compromised immune systems who may not respond accurately to skin tests.
Reduced False Positives: Individuals previously vaccinated with BCG will not experience the false positives often seen in tuberculin skin testing.
Diagnopein in Pune offers a professional and supportive environment for conducting the Quantiferon-TB Gold test with the following advantages:
1. Accurate and Reliable Testing: Our labs use advanced technology and follow strict procedures to ensure the highest accuracy.
2. Experienced Healthcare Team: Our experts provide complete support and will guide you through every step, from preparation to interpretation of results.
3. Efficient and quick reports: We offer quick processing times, ensuring you get your results within 24-48 hours.
4. Patient-Focused Care: Diagnopein ensures a comfortable, hassle-free experience, with personalized care at every stage of the testing process.
5. Data Security: We prioritize the privacy and confidentiality of our patients’ information, adhering to stringent data protection standards.
No, Quantiferon-TB Gold is not used to monitor TB treatment effectiveness. It is primarily a diagnostic tool.
Yes, the Quantiferon-TB Gold test is safe for children, although pediatric healthcare providers will determine the appropriateness based on individual cases.
While the test indicates TB exposure, it does not differentiate between latent and active TB. Additional tests, such as a chest X-ray or sputum sample, are needed to determine if the infection is active.
The Quantiferon-TB Gold test is a blood test that measures immune response to TB antigens, while the skin test involves injecting a protein under the skin and requires a follow-up visit. Quantiferon-TB Gold also avoids false positives from previous BCG vaccinations.
Results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours.
