In this episode we are joined by Hema Kapoor, MD, SM, D(ABMM), Senior Medical Director of Infectious Diseases/Immunology and Global Diagnostics Network, Medical Affairs at Quest Diagnostics, to discuss the challenges for healthcare providers who mainly rely on the old method of tuberculin skin testing, the process for the TB blood test, the strategies for converting to the TB blood test and more. This episode is sponsored by Quest Diagnostics.
Summary
The Move From Tuberculin Skin Testing to TB Blood Testing is Urgent, Says Expert
Overview
In this episode, Hema Kapoor, a Senior Medical Director at Quest Diagnostics, highlights the benefits of using the TB blood test over the traditional 100-year-old tuberculin skin test. She explains how organizations such as the CDC have recommended the transition to using TB blood tests as the standard for identifying TB infections. Kapoor stresses the urgency of this transition as the skin test poses risks and challenges, including cross-reactivity with other organisms and the need for a skilled person for administration.
Why Providers are Switching to TB Blood Test?
Kapoor explains that the TB blood test -- which requires only one patient visit and provides objective results -- eliminates the subjectivity that comes with the skin test. Although 54% of tests are still done through the traditional skin method, providers are encouraged to transition to the newer TB blood tests. They should familiarize themselves with interpreting the results and understand the storage and shipping requirements for these tests.
Benefits of Switching
Dr. Gofor also discussed the benefits of using TB blood tests versus the traditional skin test. He emphasized that 97% of the time a good result is obtained when using these tests. These results, in contrast to those of the skin test, are objective, leading to greater accuracy in the detection and treatment of TB infections. The newer tests also eliminate the risk of anaphylactic reactions that may occur with skin testing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the TB blood test is an effective and accurate means of identifying TB infections. Providers are advised to switch from the skin test to the newer method to optimize diagnosis and treatment for their patients. With support from organizations such as the CDC, a transition to TB blood tests is becoming the norm, and Quest Diagnostics is working with providers to ease this transition.
Note: This is an AI generated transcript, not edited by a staff writer and is solely intended for educational purposes. If you have any questions/concerns, reach out to podcasts@beckershealthcare.com
This episode aired on 01/26/2023 and can be listened here.