QuantiFERON TB Gold test
Quick answer: The QuantiFERON TB Gold blood test checks whether your immune system has reacted to TB bacteria, which shows past or current TB infection. It is used to look for latent TB before some treatments, after contact with TB, and as one of several tests when TB is suspected.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careSome fertility doctors in India use it when checking for TB, which can damage the womb and tubes, but a positive result does not prove genital TB and a negative one does not rule it out.
How the test is done
- 1A vein in your arm is cleaned
- 2Blood is drawn into a set of special tubes
- 3The tubes are gently mixed and kept warm in the lab
- 4The lab measures how your immune cells respond to TB proteins
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive result shows TB exposure but cannot tell latent from active TB, so discuss it with your doctor before any treatment decision.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result means your immune system has reacted to TB bacteria, which can be seen with latent or active TB, but it cannot tell the two apart. A negative result makes TB infection less likely, but it can be negative in early infection or with a weakened immune system.
Who usually has this test
People before starting medicines that weaken the immune system, close contacts of people with TB, healthcare workers, and some women in fertility work-ups when TB is suspected.
Risks and aftercare
There is nothing special to do afterwards; it does not need a return visit like the skin test.
Names and options
Also called: TB Gold, IGRA, interferon gamma release assay, QFT
Listed by the hospital as
- TB GOLD quantiferon
Questions about this test
What is the difference between QuantiFERON and the Mantoux skin test?
Both check for TB infection. QuantiFERON is a single blood test and is not affected by previous BCG vaccination, while the Mantoux test needs a return visit to read the skin reaction and can be affected by BCG.
Does a positive QuantiFERON mean I have active TB?
No. A positive result can mean latent TB, where bacteria are present but inactive. Your doctor will check for symptoms and may order a chest X-ray or other tests before deciding on treatment.
Can QuantiFERON diagnose genital TB?
No. It shows TB exposure somewhere in the body but cannot confirm TB in the womb or tubes. Doctors use other tests, such as samples from the womb lining, along with the clinical picture.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.