Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body. TB is a serious public health concern, and one of the main challenges in controlling TB is accurate and timely diagnosis. The Gamma Interferon – Quantiferon (T.B. GOLD) test is a blood test that is used to diagnose TB infection. This test measures the level of gamma interferon produced by T-cells in response to TB antigens. The test is considered to be more specific and sensitive than the traditional tuberculin skin test, and is especially useful in diagnosing latent TB infection in people who have received the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine or who have been exposed to non-tuberculous mycobacteria. The test is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and management of TB, and can help to identify individuals who require treatment to prevent the progression of the disease.
