Using QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube for field-based tuberculosis contact investigations in congregate settings.

J Public Health Manag Pract

New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Tuberculosis Control, New York 11101, USA.

Published: January 2014

AI Article Synopsis

  • Contact investigations are essential for controlling tuberculosis (TB) in the U.S., traditionally relying on the tuberculin skin test for detection.
  • Newer tests like the QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube aim to overcome some limitations of the skin test but have limited data on their effectiveness in crowded settings.
  • The text discusses two field investigations that demonstrate both the benefits and challenges of using the QuantiFERON-TB test in these types of investigations.

Article Abstract

Contact investigations are crucial to controlling tuberculosis in the United States. In these investigations, the tuberculin skin test has been the primary test to detect tuberculosis infection. Interferon-γ release assays, such as the QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube test, were recently introduced and are intended to address limitations of the tuberculin skin test. However, there are limited data on the use of these tests in contact investigations in congregate settings. We present 2 field-based investigations to highlight potential advantages, limitations, and feasibility of using the QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube test in congregate setting investigations.

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Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/PHH.0b013e318268af0bDOI Listing

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