Interferon γ-release assays for detecting latent tuberculosis infection in patients scheduled for anti-TNFα therapy.

ABSTRACT: Screening for, and treatment of, latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) before anti- tumour necrosis factor α therapy has been shown to decrease the incidence of active tuberculosis by more than 80% and is recommended before initiation of treatment. In the absence of a 'gold standard' test for LTBI, current screening involves taking a clinical history of risk factors, chest radiograph and tuberculin skin test. Alternative cellular immune-based screening tests have been developed to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. This paper summarises the current position and advances in the use of newer screening strategies for LTBI.

SUBMITTER: Greveson K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5517191 | biostudies-other | 2011 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other