Positive TB Quantiferon Blood Test?

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Specializes in Oncology.

I am starting a new job tomorrow and instead of a PPD skin test, this facility did a blood test called a Quantiferon test to look for antibodies to TB. I have had many, many skin tests for TB and have always been negative, so imagine my surprise to see that the blood test was positive. Has anyone else had this happen? I have been referred to the county health department and was initially told I would not be able to begin work on my start date, because I could be infectious. I got pretty upset, and then was told that I could start as long as I am asymptomatic and keep the appointment with the health department. Do a lot of hospitals do the blood test now? I assume now that I am positive, I will always be positive and will just need a chest X ray every year? I'm not asking for medical advice (I'm going to head on over to the CDC website to do a little research), but if anyone else has had a similar experience I would appreciate the input. Thanks!

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

we can not offer medical advice as per the terms of service. your healthcare provider or the health department will be the best ones to answer your questions.

good luck on your nursing journey

[color=#0b3d91]guidelines for using the quantiferon®-tb test

guidelines for using the quantiferon

let me google that for you

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Specializes in Oncology.
we can not offer medical advice as per the terms of service. your healthcare provider or the health department will be the best ones to answer your questions.

good luck on your nursing journey

[color=#0b3d91]guidelines for using the quantiferon®-tb test

guidelines for using the quantiferon

let me google that for you

nope, not asking for advice, just wondered if anyone else had had the same experience and how their hospital handled the situation. thanks for the links!

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Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

This is seeking medical advice:

I assume now that I am positive, I will always be positive and will just need a chest X ray every year?

Since you've received some good links, we'll close this thread.

We wish you well.

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