QuantiFERON -TB blood test

Can anyone let me know what test they had to get for TB before starting a medication like Humira ?

Thank You

Bob

Hi Bob, that test is done to rule out that you have a tuberculosis infection. It was also done before my treatment with a TNF alpha blocker.

Hello Steve,

I know that the test is for a tuberculosis infections.

I was wondering if the are better than the skin tests they used to do?

I have been on Humira for almost 8 years.

I have always been tested with the skin test.

I have read somethings about the QuantiFERON- TB blood tests giving false negatives or false positives.

Thank You

Bob

Hi Bob,

I didn't know about the skin test before, but reading about both tests the Quantiferon test is said to be more safe. There are three coloured test tubes to be filled with blood for checking different reactions.

@MetsFan posted:

Has anyone had any experience with the Quantiferon TB test?

It says something about not reliable for people with autoimmune diseases.

Thank You

Bob

Quant Gold is now the preferred test for latent TB in most patients and definitely in those who have received the BCG TB vaccine (not given in the US).  It has a lower rate of false positives than the PPD (skin test) and it relies less on interpretation of the provider. Both Quant Gold and PPD measure your immune response to TB antigen so anything that severely impairs your immune system, and specifically your T cell response, such as AIDS or cancer, can blunt the response. It is widely used in patients with autoimmune disease and unless you have severely depleted T cell activity for some reason you should be fine. The vast majority on this site (anyone who has received a biologic) have likely had a Quant Gold test. It is standard practice prior to initiation of most biologics and many other immunosuppressive meds. Plus the interferon-gamma release assays (Quant gold is a brand name of IGRA) and PPD are the only options. Hope this helps.