What is the Tuberculosis Test | QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus?
What is the Tuberculosis Test | QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus?The Tuberculosis Test | QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus is a blood test that helps detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Unlike the traditional skin test, this test measures the immune response to TB proteins in the blood, offering greater accuracy. One interesting fact is that the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus can differentiate between latent and active TB infections, providing critical insights into a patient’s TB status.
Why is the Tuberculosis Test | QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus Important?
Identifying TB infection early is essential for effective treatment and prevention. The QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus test is particularly important because it can identify latent TB infections, which may not show symptoms but can develop into active TB if untreated. This is crucial for individuals at high risk, such as those with weakened immune systems. Moreover, the test is not affected by previous BCG vaccination, 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 accurate results quickly means that appropriate 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 skin test, making it a reliable choice for TB screening.
Labs Included in Your Order
| Test Name | Reference Ranges | Significance of Biomarker | High and Low Levels |
|---|---|---|---|
| QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus |
|
This test detects the presence of TB bacteria by measuring the immune response to TB antigens in the blood. |
High: High levels of immune response indicate a TB infection.
Low: Low or absent immune response suggests no TB infection.
|
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 or have been in contact with someone diagnosed with TB. 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.
Important Note:
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.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
