Also known as: TB ELISpot
This is a T cell based assay for the detection of infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. T-SPOT.TB enumerates individual activated TB-specific effector T cells. T-SPOT.TB assay cannot distinguish between latent and active TB infection.
This test may be appropriate in the following situations:
- For detection of latent TB in people whose Mantoux testing shows positive results, or in people for whom Mantoux testing may be less reliable, for example BCG-vaccinated people.
- For new entrants from high-incidence countries
- For contact tracing in a TB outbreak
- For people with HIV and other people who are immunocompromised
- For healthcare workers who have recently arrived from high-incidence countries or who have had contact with patients in settings where TB is highly prevalent
- For detection of latent TB in patients prior to anti-TNF-α treatment such as infliximab, etanercept etc.
For detailed recommendations please see NICE clinical guideline 117 (CG117), issued March 2011 (http://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg117).
Specimen requirements
Heparinised blood samples are required. Optimal blood volumes are:
- 8 mL for an adult and children over 10 years
- 6 mL for a child between 2-10 years
- 2 mL for infants up to 2years
- Larger volumes of blood may be required for lymphopaenic patients
- 16 mL of heparin is recommended for patients with HIV
Sample should be taken on Monday-Thursday and must be received in the Immunology Laboratory within 8 hours of venepuncture and before 3pm. Samples must not have been refrigerated or centrifuged.
Cost
Price on application
Laboratory turnaround time
3 working days
Laboratory method
Not applicable
Reference range/units
Not applicable
Associated tests
Sample stability
8 hours post venepuncture (do not refrigerate or centrifuge)
Shipping and storage
See specimen requirements
Further information and contact details
For further information, email immunologylab.enquiries@ouh.nhs.uk
