This blood test aids in detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis (TB). A sample is analyzed for interferon-gamma release, a cytokine produced by immune cells in response to TB antigens. A positive outcome suggests infection, while a negative outcome suggests the absence of infection. An indeterminate outcome can occur and may require further investigation.
Offering a modern approach to TB screening, this diagnostic tool provides several advantages over the traditional tuberculin skin test (TST). It requires only a single patient visit, delivers results more quickly, and is less prone to false positives due to prior BCG vaccination or exposure to non-tuberculous mycobacteria. Early and accurate identification of TB infection is critical for timely treatment initiation, preventing disease progression, and limiting transmission. This in vitro assay represents a significant advancement in TB control efforts worldwide.
