conclusions here we review the clinical applications, advantages, and limitations of the tuberculin skin test and interferon-gamma release assays and provide an overview of the most recent systematic reviews conducted for the comparison of these tests. context it has been estimated that one-third of the world’s population are suffering from latent tuberculosis infection (ltbi). in order to cont...

In the early 1990s, WHO declared TB a global emergency [1]. Since that time after introduction of DOTS strategy and National TB Programs, the reduction of global incidence rate (2002), as well as of total number of TB cases (2006) were recorded. However, in 2012, about 8.6 million cases were established, of which only two third were registered. It means that 3 million cases were missed and untr...

In this prospective study, human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-infected subjects underwent QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube interferon-γ release assay (IGRA) testing at baseline and after 24 months in a low tuberculosis incidence country. Concordant baseline and follow-up results were observed in 86% (n = 686 of 794) of subjects. IGRA conversions occurred in 9% (n = 63 of 718), whereas IGRA ...

UNLABELLED INTRODUCTION The effect of using a borderline zone for the interpretation of the interferon-γ release assay (IGRA) on the prediction of progression to active tuberculosis (TB) in healthcare workers (HCW) is analysed. METHODS Data from a published study on TB screening in Portuguese HCW is reanalysed using a borderline zone for the interpretation of the IGRA. Testing was performe...

In 2007, an extensive contact screening investigation into onward transmission of tuberculosis was instigated at a hospital in Northern Ireland following diagnosis of pulmonary multi-drug resistant TB in a healthcare worker. Interferon gamma release assays (IGRAs) were used to test 333 patients and 98 staff. We investigated for evidence of onward transmission and recent infection based on analy...

QuantiFERON-TB data from 50 children with tuberculosis were analysed to evaluate age related effects. Significantly higher IFN-? responses to TB-specific antigens were associated with younger age, but no difference was found with Mitogen responses. Extrapolating IGRA responses to a Mitogen does not reflect those induced by an antigen-specific stimulus. QFT-IT responses to TB-specific antigens a...

Since the 1988 passage of the Indian Gaming and Regulatory Act (IGRA), American Indian tribal communities have rapidly opened up casinos. American Indian participation in recreational gambling has increased, resulting in an increase in problem and pathological gambling. However, increased revenues from gaming have significantly benefited tribes. Background information on the Supreme Court case ...