![]() ![]() These tests appear to be more sensitive and specific than the tuberculin skin test. There are two tests available, the QuantiFERON-TB® Gold (QFT) Test and the T-Spot®.TB Test. If your immune system has ever seen these antigens, your cells will produce interferon-gamma, a substance produced by our immune system and, which can be measured in a laboratory. Each tests involves collection of blood that is then stimulated with a group of antigens (proteins) found in the bacteria that causes TB. They are still used in research settings, but some hospitals and clinics are using them in place of the tuberculin skin test. There are two new blood tests that have recently been developed to test for exposure to tuberculosis germs. Newer blood tests have helped identify those with true TB infection. Previous vaccination for TB compromises the validity of the tuberculin skin test. People with positive skin tests but without active disease cannot transmit the infection to others. It does not often mean the person has active disease. This often means that TB germs have infected the body. ![]() If a person has been infected with TB, a lump will form at the site of the injection. The killed germs are injected into the skin. The tuberculin skin test (or PPD) uses an extract of killed TB germs. ![]() Like any disease, early intervention and treatment is very important. Getting an accurate history is important in diagnosing and treating TB.
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