QUANTIFERON-TB GOLD TEST (IGRA)

For decades, the TB skin test (Mantoux/PPD) was the only option, but it often required multiple visits and produced false positives. The QuantiFERON-TB Gold blood test solves these issues: Single Visit Convenience: Requires only one blood draw. No need to return days later to have a skin bump measured. Higher Accuracy: It is highly specific and virtually eliminates false-positive results caused by the BCG vaccine or other non-TB mycobacteria. Objective Results: Results are analyzed by a laboratory machine, removing the human error associated with manually measuring skin reactions.

It is highly accurate, with a specificity of >97%. This means it is excellent at correctly identifying people who do not have TB, significantly reducing unnecessary medical treatments compared to skin testing.

Overnight fasting is not mandatory.