Updated Guidelines Emphasize Newer Tests for TB Diagnosis

Patients at risk for tuberculosis (TB) infection should be assessed with newer tests, including interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) and molecular diagnostics, according to new guidelines developed by the American Thoracic Society, Infectious Diseases Society of America, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The guidelines, published in the December issue of Clinical Infectious Diseases, are the first updates in 17 years and were prompted by advances in testing. "These guidelines develop a structured approach to testing, recommending that doctors test for latent TB in patients who are at risk for infection and who would benefit from treatment, and for TB disease in patients who have signs and symptoms of the disease," said David Lewinsohn, M.D., Ph.D., lead author of the guidelines in a statement. "Even though TB disease is not common in this country, it’s important that doctors remember it’s still around, and that they should test patients when appropriate." "These guidelines develop a structured approach to testing, recommending that doctors test for latent TB in patients who are at risk for infection and who would benefit from treatment, and for TB disease in patients who have signs and symptoms of the disease." —David Lewinsohn, M.D., Ph.D. […]