The QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus) assay is an in vitro diagnostic test using a peptide cocktail simulating ESAT-6 and CFP-10 proteins to stimulate cells in heparinized whole blood. Detection of interferon gamma by ELISA is used to identify in vitro responses to those peptide antigens that are associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.
Container / Tube
Lithium Heparin tubes.
Collection Conditions
A minimum of 6ml of blood collected by venepuncture into Lithium heparin tubes is required. It may be necessary to distribute the sample between two tubes to ensure sufficient blood is available for testing. Gently mix by inverting the tube several times to dissolve the heparin. Clearly label the request form to say that it is for URGENT transfer into QuantiFERON tubes. Blood from GPs must arrive in the Microbiology Laboratory by 7pm on the day of collection. Samples must NOT be refrigerated at any time.
Samples from MYTT must arrive at the MYTT reception by 2:30pm to be transported to LTHT in sufficient time for processing.
Please contact the laboratory on 0113 206 9466 if further test information is required.
Availability
Monday to Friday 8.30am – 2.30pm (MYTT) / 7.00pm (GPs).
Send to
Microbiology Department, Centre for Laboratory Medicine, St James’s University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF.
Turnaround Time
6 days.
Additional Information
This test can be used to diagnose active tuberculosis and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI).
ID
3734