a blood sample on a patient for a TB blood test" />a blood sample on a patient for a TB blood test" />
TB blood tests (also called interferon-gamma release assays or IGRAs) use a blood sample to find out if you are infected with TB germs. The tests measure how your immune system reacts when a small amount of your blood is mixed with TB proteins.
Your health care provider will use one of the two TB blood tests approved for use in the United States:
Anyone can get a TB blood test. TB blood tests are preferred for people who:
TB blood tests are safe to use during pregnancy. TB blood tests have not been evaluated for diagnosing inactive TB, also called latent TB infection, in pregnant people.
BCG is a vaccine for TB disease. The vaccine is not generally used in the United States. It is given to infants and small children in countries where TB is common. It protects children from getting severe forms of active TB disease, such as TB meningitis.
Tell your health care provider if you have received the TB vaccine, especially if you are getting tested for TB infection. The vaccine can cause a false positive TB skin test reaction. TB blood tests are the preferred tests for people who have received the BCG TB vaccine.
You can get tested for TB at the health department or at your health care provider's office. Your health care provider will choose the TB test that is best for you. Public and private health care plans may cover TB testing costs.
