From the Guidelines
A QuantiFERON-TB Gold test result over 10 IU/mL indicates a strong positive reaction, suggesting infection with tuberculosis (TB). This blood test measures the immune response to TB proteins, and values above 0.35 IU/mL are considered positive, with higher values like those over 10 IU/mL indicating a more robust immune response to TB antigens 1. If you have a result this high, you should consult with a healthcare provider immediately as you likely need further evaluation including a chest X-ray and possibly other tests to determine if you have active TB disease or latent TB infection (LTBI).
Key Considerations
- For LTBI, treatment typically involves a single antibiotic like isoniazid for 6-9 months, or shorter combination regimens like isoniazid plus rifapentine for 12 weeks 1.
- For active TB, a multi-drug regimen including isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide for at least 6 months is usually required 1.
- The high value itself doesn't distinguish between active and latent infection, nor does it indicate disease severity or treatment response - it simply confirms exposure to TB bacteria and immune recognition.
- Clinical correlation with symptoms and additional testing is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment planning 1.
Next Steps
- Consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the test results and determine the next steps in evaluation and treatment.
- Further testing, such as a chest X-ray, may be necessary to determine if you have active TB disease or LTBI.
- Treatment options will depend on the diagnosis and may include antibiotics or other medications.
From the Research
Quantiferon Test Results
- The Quantiferon test is a blood test used to diagnose latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- A positive result indicates that a person has been infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes TB.
- The test measures the release of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) from white blood cells in response to TB antigens.
- The results are typically reported as a ratio of IFN-γ release in response to TB antigens compared to a negative control.
Interpretation of Quantiferon Results
- A result of 0.35 IU/mL or higher is generally considered positive, indicating LTBI 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- A result of 0.35 IU/mL or lower is generally considered negative, indicating no LTBI.
- However, the specific cutoff value may vary depending on the laboratory and the testing method used.
- In the context of the provided studies, there is no direct information on the meaning of a Quantiferon result over 10.
Limitations of Provided Studies
- The provided studies do not directly address the meaning of a Quantiferon result over 10 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies focus on the treatment of LTBI, including the efficacy and safety of different treatment regimens, rather than the interpretation of Quantiferon test results.
- Therefore, it is not possible to provide a definitive answer to the question based on the provided studies.