Tuberculosis Test | QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus For TB

What is the Tuberculosis Test | QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus?

The TB Test, QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT test), is a blood test that helps detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Unlike the traditional PPD skin test, this test measures the immune response to TB in the blood, offering better accuracy.

QuantiFERON TB test can differentiate between an infection that has not yet shown symptoms and active TB infections, which is important, especially for those needing a TB test for employment.

Why is the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus TB Test Important?

Identifying TB infection early is essential for effective treatment and prevention.

The QuantiFERON TB test helps identify latent TB infections, which show no symptoms but can advance to active TB if not addressed. This is very important for those with weakened immune systems (immune-suppressing medications, autoimmunity, etc.) and those who are required to get a TB test for employment.

Another plus is that the test is not affected by previous Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination, a type of vaccination to prevent tuberculosis, ensuring accurate results.

Why Should You Consider Ordering the Tuberculosis Test | QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus?

Ordering the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus test is a proactive step in managing your health, especially if you are in a high-risk category for TB. The test’s ability to provide fast and accurate results means that medical action can be taken without delay. Additionally, the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus test has been shown to have fewer false positives compared to the PPD skin test, making it the best choice for TB screening.

TB Test for Employment

A TB test for employment is often required for jobs in healthcare, schools, and similar fields to check for exposure to tuberculosis. Since Tuberculosis can lay dormant, this ensures a safe workplace by preventing the spread of TB by those who do not know they have it. The QuantiFERON blood test is the best option for TB testing.

Many employers will even reimburse you for the cost of this TB test.

Labs Included in Your Order

Tuberculosis Test | QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus FAQ

What is the Tuberculosis Test | QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus for?

This test helps diagnose TB infections by measuring the immune system’s response to TB bacteria in the blood. It can detect both active and latent TB.

What are the signs and symptoms of TB?

Common symptoms of active TB include a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. Latent TB, on the other hand, does not show symptoms but can become active if not treated.

How often should I retest?

Retesting is recommended if you are at continued risk of exposure, have been in contact with someone diagnosed with TB, or your employer requires periodic TB testing. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

How accurate is the test?

The QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus is highly accurate and is known for fewer false positives compared to the traditional skin test. It provides reliable results that help in making informed medical decisions.

Are test results private and confidential?

Receive test results securely on TrueHealthLabs.com under ‘My Account.’ It’s critical that you share them with your physician. Results may be disclosed to health authorities only if legally mandated. Review our privacy policy for more details.

Additional Note From TrueHealthLabs.com:

If your test results are positive, you may be contacted by the CDC. Any CDC representatives are legally bound to protect your personal information. No information will be released to your insurance company, your employer, or any other persons without your authorization.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
   “Testing for Tuberculosis.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
   Published June 17, 2024. Accessed November 18, 2024.
2. Sosa LE, Njie GJ, Lobato MN, et al.
   “Tuberculosis Screening, Testing, and Treatment of U.S. Health Care Personnel: Recommendations from the National Tuberculosis Controllers Association and CDC, 2019.”
   MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2019;68(19):439-443.
   doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm6819a3.
3. Pai M, Behr MA, Dowdy D, et al.
   “Tuberculosis.” Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2016;2:16076.
   doi:10.1038/nrdp.2016.76.