Quantiferon-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus)
This month, we showcase Quantiferon-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus). QFT-Plus is an in vitro diagnostic test using a peptide cocktail stimulating ESAT-6 and CFP-10 proteins to stimulate cells in heparinized whole blood. Detection of interferon-g (IFN-g) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is used to identify in vitro responses to those peptide antigens that are associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. QFT-Plus is an indirect test for M. tuberculosis infection (including disease) and is intended for use in conjunction with risk assessment, radiography, and other medical and diagnostic evaluations. Enhanced performance Increased sensitivity Sustained high specificity Improved performance in high risk groups People who are immunocompromised People living with HIV/AIDS