Tuberculosis (TB) Quantiferon

The TB Quantiferon test is a modern blood test done to check for tuberculosis (TB). Unlike a traditional skin test, this only requires a single blood draw and is not affected by prior Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination. It’s a test specifically designed to detect a latent TB infection, meaning the TB bacteria are in the body but aren’t causing any symptoms.

This test can also help diagnose active TB disease. It works by measuring the immune system’s response to TB-specific proteins, making it a highly accurate and convenient option for screening people who may have been exposed to TB. The TB Quantiferon test is definitely a crucial tool in the fight against this serious disease.

TB Quantiferon Test Cost Overview

The cost of a TB Quantiferon test can differ significantly based on your location, healthcare provider, and any insurance coverage. Prices can also vary between different laboratories and medical facilities. 

It’s always best to inquire directly with your doctor or testing facility for the most accuration and up-to-date pricing information.

Who Should Get a TB Quantiferon Test

Here are some common reasons why a TB Quantiferon Test might be recommended:

Individuals with TB Risk Factors

• Close contacts: Those who have spent a lot of time with someone diagnosed with active TB.
• Healthcare workers: Individuals working in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities where exposure to TB is possible.
• Immigrants and travelers: People who have recently arrived from, or traveled to, countries with a high prevalence of TB.
• Immunocompromised individuals: Patients with conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV, or those on medications that suppress the immune system.

People with Possible TB Symptoms

• Unexplained cough: A persistent cough that lasts for three weeks or more.
• Fever and chills: Especially if accompanied by night sweats.
• Weight loss and fatigue: Unexplained loss of appetite and feeling tired all the time.

Before Starting Certain Treatments

• Screening for latent TB before a patient starts treatments that could reactivate the infection, such as those for autoimmune diseases or organ transplants.

Routine Screening and Public Health

• As part of a routine medical examination for certain jobs or school admissions.
• In public health programs to identify and treat latent TB infections, helping to prevent the spread of the disease.

Quantiferon-TB Gold Plus Test Process

Here’s a simple breakdown of the Quantiferon-TB Gold Plus test:

1. Doctor’s Order: Your doctor will determine if you need the test, especially if you have been exposed to someone with TB, have symptoms, or are in a high-risk group.
2. Blood Sample Collection: Visit a clinic or lab to have a small amount of blood drawn. A special collection kit is used for this, which has four tubes. The blood samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
3. Laboratory Analysis: The lab should incubate your blood samples with special proteins that are unique to the TB bacteria. If you have been exposed to TB, your white blood cells will recognize these proteins and release a substance called interferon-gamma. The lab will then measure the amount of this substance to determine if there has been an immune response to the TB bacteria.
4. Results and Interpretation: After the analysis, the lab should send your results back to your doctor. A positive result indicates that you have been infected with the TB bacteria. A negative result means you have not been infected. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and determine the next steps, which may include further testing or treatment.

FAQs

How is the Quantiferon test different from the skin test?

The main difference is that the Quantiferon test is a blood test, while the skin test involves injecting a substance under the skin.

How long does it take to get the results?

Results are typically available within 24 hours to a few days after the blood sample is received by the lab.

Can the Quantiferon test be used for children?

Yes, the Quantiferon test can be used for children. However, the skin test is sometimes preferred for very young children. The doctor will decide which test is best based on the child’s age and risk factors.

Have Your TB Quantiferon Test at Medi Linx

Has your doctor recommended a TB Quantiferon test? For fast, accurate, and reliable results, choose Medi Linx Laboratory. Our state-of-the-art facility ensures you receive the highest quality service and precise results, giving you the essential information needed for your health. Contact us today to schedule your TB Quantiferon test!