Alpha Laboratory, Banur collects the sample, and it's processed in-house or at a partner reference laboratory, depending on the test. Because the tubes are special, please call 8872524007 before coming.
What the TB Gold test checks
QuantiFERON is an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA). Your blood is collected into tubes coated with proteins found in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. If your T-cells have seen TB before, they react to these proteins by releasing a chemical called interferon-gamma, which the lab measures.
The proteins used aren't present in the BCG vaccine, so unlike the old Mantoux skin test, a BCG shot in childhood doesn't cause a false positive.
Why your doctor may order it
- Before starting medicines that weaken the immune system, such as steroids, biologics for arthritis or psoriasis, or chemotherapy.
- Close contacts of someone with active TB.
- People with HIV, diabetes on dialysis, or before an organ transplant.
- Some visa, hospital-job or nursing-course requirements.
It is not the test for active lung TB. If you have a cough for more than two weeks, fever, night sweats or weight loss, your doctor will want sputum tests and a chest X-ray. Sputum TB tests and treatment are free at government centres under the National TB Elimination Programme. Short fevers are usually checked first with the Fever Profile, a dengue test or a typhoid test.
How to prepare
No fasting. The sample has strict handling rules: the tubes must be filled to the right mark, shaken properly and reach the processing lab within a set time. So book ahead rather than walking in, ideally on a weekday morning. Tell your doctor about any steroids or immune-suppressing medicine, since they can blunt the result.
Sample type and report time
Blood is drawn into the special QuantiFERON tubes (or a single tube that's split at the lab). It's best collected at the lab; ask before booking home sample collection for this test. Report time is usually 1–3 working days; we'll tell you the expected date when you book on 8872524007.
Understanding your results
- Positive: TB infection is likely at some point. It can't tell latent from active TB, so your doctor will check for symptoms and may order a chest X-ray.
- Negative: TB infection is unlikely, though very recent infection or a weak immune system can give a false negative.
- Indeterminate: the control part of the test didn't work as expected, often because of immune suppression or sample handling. A repeat is usually advised.
Your doctor reads the QuantiFERON test result with your history and other tests.
FAQ
Is there a TB test on blood instead of the skin test?
Yes, that's the QuantiFERON (TB Gold) test. It needs one blood draw and no return visit, and BCG vaccination doesn't affect it.
Can the TB Gold test diagnose active TB?
No. It shows TB infection, not whether it's active. Active TB is diagnosed with sputum tests, imaging and a doctor's examination.
Where can I get a QuantiFERON test near me in Banur?
If you're looking for a QuantiFERON test near me in Banur, call Alpha Laboratory first so the special tubes are ready, then come to our M.C. Road lab in the morning.
Should I stop my medicines before the test?
No. Don't change any medicine on your own. Just tell your doctor what you take.
Book at Alpha Laboratory
Visit Alpha Laboratory, Municipal Committee, M.C. Road, Banur, Monday to Saturday from 7:00 am. To book a QuantiFERON test, call 8872524007 or WhatsApp us. See the contact page for directions.