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Testing for Tuberculosis (TB)

Testing for Tuberculosis (TB)

Publication Date: 2011
Country of Origin: United States
Format: Information Sheet
Language: English
How to Access this Material:
PDF: https://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/testing/TB_Factsheet.pdf

Abstract

In a question and answer format, this information sheet discusses testing for tuberculosis (TB). There are two kinds of tests that are used to determine if a person has been infected with TB bacteria: the tuberculin skin test (TST) and TB blood tests. It explains these two kinds of tests in detail: what is a TST, how does the TST work, what does a positive TST result mean, and who can receive a TST, what is an Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA), how does the IGRA work, what does a positive IGRA result mean, who can receive an IGRA, how often can it be given, and who should get tested for TB. The sheet concludes with how to choose a TB test and how the diagnosis of latent TB infection or TB disease is made.

Publisher:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,National Center for HIV Viral Hepatitis STD and TB Prevention

Audience(s):

General Public

Topic:

Diagnosis- Screening, TB

Disclaimer: The information on the Find TB Resources Website is made available as a public service. Neither the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention nor the National Prevention Information Network endorses the organizations, Website s, and materials presented. It is the responsibility of the user to evaluate this information prior to use based on individual, community, and organizational needs and standards.