Diagnostics·Diagnostics
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The QuantiFERON test is a blood test that checks if your immune system has been exposed to the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB). It measures how your white blood cells react to TB proteins. A positive result means you likely have a TB infection, but it doesn’t tell if the infection is active (causing symptoms) or latent (dormant in your body).
Key facts
The QuantiFERON test is widely used in many countries for TB screening, especially in people at higher risk of infection. However, TB infection itself is less common in low-incidence countries like the United Kingdom, but it remains a significant health issue worldwide.
It is used for people who may have been exposed to TB, such as close contacts of someone with active TB, healthcare workers, people from countries where TB is common, and those with weakened immune systems (for example, from HIV, long-term steroid use, or certain medications).
A diagnosis of TB infection begins with the QuantiFERON blood test. If the test is positive, your doctor will check for active TB disease by asking about symptoms, doing a physical exam, and ordering further tests such as a chest X-ray and a sample of your phlegm (sputum).
Treatment depends on whether you have latent TB infection (no symptoms) or active TB disease (symptoms). Latent TB is treated to prevent it from becoming active. Active TB requires a longer course of medicines to cure the infection and stop it from spreading to others. Treatment is highly effective when taken correctly.
For latent TB, a course of preventive antibiotics is given for several months (usually 3 to 9 months depending on the regimen). For active TB, a combination of antibiotics is used for at least 6 months. Your doctor will choose the right plan based on your health and the type of TB. It is very important to complete the full course—stopping early can cause the infection to come back and become drug-resistant.
If you have latent TB, you can lead a completely normal life – just remember to take your medication as prescribed. If you have active TB, you may need to stay home from work or school for a few weeks until you are no longer contagious. After that, you can safely return to daily activities.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can help your body fight infection. Moderate exercise like walking is fine, but rest when you feel tired. Active TB can cause weight loss, so eating enough nutritious food is important.
Yes, in many cases. The best way to prevent TB is to avoid close contact with people who have active TB disease, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. Good ventilation and wearing masks can reduce the risk. For people at high risk, testing and treating latent TB infection before it becomes active is a key prevention strategy.
The BCG vaccine is given in some countries to protect against severe forms of TB in children. It is not routinely used in the United Kingdom anymore for the general population, but may be recommended for babies in high-risk areas or for people with occupational exposure. The QuantiFERON test is not affected by BCG vaccination, unlike the skin test.
Regular TB screening (with QuantiFERON or skin test) is recommended for people at high risk, such as healthcare workers, people with HIV, close contacts of TB patients, and people coming from countries where TB is common. Early detection of latent infection can prevent progression to active disease.
With complete and proper treatment, most people with TB infection make a full recovery. Even active TB is curable in over 95% of cases when medications are taken as prescribed. The key is to follow your doctor’s advice and finish all your medicine, even if you start feeling better.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Getting a blood test is quick and simple. After a positive result, you will likely be referred to a TB specialist clinic. They will explain the next steps gently. If you need a chest X-ray, it is painless and only takes a few minutes. Sputum tests require you to cough up phlegm into a cup. The whole process is meant to be as comfortable as possible.
A TB diagnosis can be stressful and may cause worry about your health or about infecting others. You might feel isolated if you have to stay away from people. These feelings are normal. It can help to talk to a counsellor or join a support group (ask your local health service for options).