
A positive interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) is regarded as proof of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. We conducted an evaluation of the IGRA test "T-SPOT.TB" to test its performance during clinical routine use by analysing the positivity rate and odds, effect of season and sensitivity.Data from T-SPOT.TB testing together with age and test indications (anti-tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) candidate, contact investigation or suspicion of tuberculosis (TB)) were combined with mycobacteria culture results.A total of 1,809 patients were tested. Conclusive results were achieved for 1,780 patients (98.4%). Among these, 4.6% of anti-TNFα candidates, 19.3% of contacts and 24.4% of TB suspects tested positive. Compared with anti-TNFα candidates, the odds for a positive result were significantly higher for contact investigations (odds ratio (OR), mean (95% confidence interval): 4.93 (3.11-7.81)) and TB suspects (OR: 6.83 (4.33-10.77)). Elevated odds of an inconclusive test were found during autumn and winter periods (OR: 2.53 (1.58-4.05)) and for patients > 75 years of age (OR: 2.66 (1.43-4.94)) and 75 years of age. The T-SPOT.TB showed a high sensitivity in culture-verified TB, although false negative results did occur.not relevant.not relevant.
Adult, Adolescent, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha, Age Factors, Middle Aged, Sensitivity and Specificity, Young Adult, Latent Tuberculosis, Odds Ratio, Humans, Mass Screening, Seasons, Contact Tracing, Child, False Negative Reactions, Interferon-gamma Release Tests, Aged
Adult, Adolescent, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha, Age Factors, Middle Aged, Sensitivity and Specificity, Young Adult, Latent Tuberculosis, Odds Ratio, Humans, Mass Screening, Seasons, Contact Tracing, Child, False Negative Reactions, Interferon-gamma Release Tests, Aged
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