Diagnostics·Diagnostics
QuantiFERON TB test
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
The QuantiFERON-TB Gold test is a blood test that checks if your immune system has been exposed to the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB). It helps doctors find a TB infection that may be hiding in your body without making you sick (called latent TB) or to help diagnose active TB.
Key facts
- It is a simple blood test, not a skin test.
- It measures how your immune cells react to TB bacteria.
- The test can help tell the difference between a past TB vaccination and a real infection.
- Results usually come back within 24 hours.
Yes, the QuantiFERON test is widely used around the world, especially in countries like the UK where the BCG vaccine is given.