Diagnosis of latent tuberculosis infection among HIV-infected clients in Far North Queensland: use of an interferon-gamma release assay

Sex Health. 2013 Aug;10(4):389-90. doi: 10.1071/SH12167.

Abstract

Latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection is a significant risk for those infected with HIV. We examined the use of an interferon-gamma release assay for the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis among HIV-infected clients attending two sexual health services in Far North Queensland. Of 240 clients tested, 19 returned a positive result (7.9%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.5-11.3%) and three were indeterminate (1.3%, 95% CI: -0.2%-2.7%). Low CD4 count was found to be significantly associated with an indeterminate test result (P=0.004). However, we found no significant association between test results and client demographics, self-reported prior tuberculosis infection, Bacille Calmette-Guérin vaccine status or selected tuberculosis risk factors (P-values=0.2-0.9).

MeSH terms

  • HIV Infections
  • Humans
  • Interferon-gamma Release Tests*
  • Latent Tuberculosis*
  • Queensland
  • Sexual Behavior