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Clinical Application and Limitations of Interferon-gamma Release Assays for the Diagnosis of Latent Tuberculosis Infection

Clinical Application and Limitations of Interferon-gamma Release Assays for the Diagnosis of Latent Tuberculosis Infection CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES Herrera, V., Perry, S., Parsonnet, J., Banaei, N. 2011; 52 (8): 1031-1037

Abstract

Interferon-release assays (IGRAs) represent advances in tuberculosis immunology and evolutionary biology. IGRAs were designed to replace tuberculin skin test (TST) for the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis infection because of their logistical advantages and enhanced specificity over TST. Although IGRAs and TST have been useful in epidemiologic studies, they lack the sensitivity and reproducibility normally expected from diagnostic tests in clinical practice. In this review, we present an overview of the current recommendations and knowledge in the field and discuss practical approaches in areas of uncertainty related to discordant IGRA results.

View details for DOI 10.1093/cid/cir068

View details for Web of Science ID 000289300100014

View details for PubMedID 21460320