QUANTIFERON TB GOLD PLUS (QFT-PLUS)

What is tuberculosis (TB)?

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infection caused by exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which spreads rapidly from person to person, mainly through coughing and sneezing. TB primarily injures the lungs but also damages other vital organs like the brain, spine, and kidneys.

Who has a higher risk of getting infected with tuberculosis (TB)?

Specific individuals have a higher risk of TB infection after exposure. These include individuals who:

  • Work or live where TB is more common, such as in the healthcare industry, shelters for people without homes, and jails.
  • Have weak immune systems
  • Have other diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, autoimmune disorder, or diabetes, that make it hard for your body to fight TB bacteria
  • Have an alcohol abuse disorder or use illegal drugs
  • Were not appropriately treated for TB in the past
  • Children under the age of 5
  • Adults 55 or older

Additionally, it is important to note that NOT all individuals infected with TB bacteria display symptoms. Therefore, there are two types of TB conditions:

  • Latent TB infection – the TB bacteria lives dormant in the body without any symptoms.
  • Active TB – am individual gets sick from the TB germs. Individuals can almost always cure TB disease with antibiotics. But if not appropriately treated, it can become fatal.

How is tuberculosis tested?

Tuberculosis (TB) is tested via QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus. This is a blood-based interferon-gamma release assay used to help in the diagnosis of tuberculosis by measuring a patient’s immune response to certain TB antigens, QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus) aids in the diagnosis of mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. The Gold Plus panel is approved by the FDA to screen TB.

When should I order a QuantiFERON TB Gold Plus Blood Test?

Individuals experiencing the following signs or symptoms may order QuantiFERON TB test:

  • Chills and fever
  • Night sweats
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Consistent cough that lasts longer than three weeks
  • Coughing up blood or thick mucus from the lungs
  • Chest discomfort

How is the QuantiFERON test done?

The blood sample is collected using a needle and tube. After that studies are done on the sample by Genics laboratories, and finally, the results are released.

Why use Genics Laboratories for TB Gold Plus testing?

At Genics Laboratories we provide patients and providers rapid and accurate results. Within 48-72 hours after the tests arrives at the laboratory, the results will be released. To get started, contact us via the website or give us a call at (702) 209-2223.