Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that usually attacks the lungs, but it can spread to other parts of the body. Because of the risks associated with TB, doctors use a variety of tests to diagnose it.
One such test is the QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube test. This test helps doctors determine if you’ve been infected with TB. A positive test result does not necessarily mean you have active TB disease, but it may indicate that you need further evaluation.
If your doctor has recommended that you get a QuantiFERON TB test, you may be wondering, “Where can I find a Quantiferon TB test near me?” This article provides information about the test and how to locate testing sites.
Understanding Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis, often called TB, is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
There are two forms of TB: active and latent. With active TB, you’re sick and contagious. With latent TB, the bacteria are inactive and don’t make you sick, nor are you contagious. However, latent TB can become active if your immune system weakens.
TB spreads through the air when someone with active TB coughs, speaks, or sings. You’re more likely to contract TB from someone you spend a lot of time with than from a stranger in a public place.
QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube Test: An Overview
The QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube test is a blood test that can tell whether you’ve been infected with tuberculosis (TB). It’s often used in place of the older tuberculin skin test, sometimes called the Mantoux test.
The QuantiFERON-TB Gold test measures your immune system’s response to TB bacteria. It works by measuring the level of a substance called interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) in your blood. You’ll need to have a blood sample drawn for this test.
One of the advantages of the QuantiFERON-TB Gold test is that you only have to go in for a single blood draw, whereas the skin test requires you to go in twice. Also, if you’ve had a BCG vaccination in the past, it won’t affect the QuantiFERON-TB Gold test results.
Finding QuantiFERON-TB Testing Near You
If you need to be tested for TB, here are a few places to start looking for a QuantiFERON-TB Gold test near you.
- Your primary care physician. Call your doctor’s office to ask whether they offer TB testing in general and the QuantiFERON-TB Gold test specifically.
- Urgent care centers. Some urgent care centers offer TB testing. It’s best to call ahead to make sure they offer the QuantiFERON-TB Gold test.
- Public health departments and TB control offices. Your local health department or TB control office may offer TB testing at a reduced cost or even for free. They’re also a great resource for information on local testing options.
- Quest Diagnostics. Quest Diagnostics offers the QuantiFERON-TB Gold test, and you may be able to order testing without a doctor’s visit through QuestHealth.com.
You can also use a search engine like Google or Bing to search for “QuantiFERON TB test near me” or “TB testing locations.” Just be sure to confirm the type of test offered and any scheduling requirements with the testing provider before you go.
The Testing Process at Quest Diagnostics
If you’re considering Quest Diagnostics for your QuantiFERON-TB Gold test, here’s what you can expect:
Ordering and Scheduling
You can buy the QuantiFERON-TB Gold test online through QuestHealth.com. After you register your test, you’ll set up a time for your blood to be drawn.
Sample Collection
You can have your blood drawn at a Quest Diagnostics location or, for an extra fee, in your own home. A trained phlebotomist will be there to take the sample.
Receiving and Understanding Results
Your results will usually be available online in a few days. Quest Diagnostics might also offer a consultation with a doctor to go over your results with you.
In Closing
If you’re at risk of tuberculosis infection, it’s important to get tested. The QuantiFERON-TB Gold test is one way to find out if you’ve been infected with TB bacteria.
You can get the QuantiFERON-TB Gold test through your primary care physician, at an urgent care center, or at a Quest Diagnostics location.
If you think you’ve been exposed to tuberculosis, talk with a healthcare provider about your concerns. They can give you personalized advice about testing and treatment options.