Specimen

4 mL (3 mL min.) Whole blood in 1 Green top (Sodium/Lithium heparin) tube. Ship refrigerated. DO NOT FREEZE.

Usage

Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is a non-communicable asymptomatic condition that persists for many years and may progress to tuberculous disease. The main aim of diagnosing LTBI is to consider medical treatment for preventing the disease. This test is a measure of cell mediated immune response to antigens simulating the mycobacterial proteins. A positive result indicates that Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection is likely but further medical & diagnostic evaluation is necessary. This test is usually negative in individuals vaccinated with Mycobacterium bovis BCG.