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DNA Labs India

TB Gold Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

TB Gold Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) Test

Short Name: TB Gold IGRA Test

Also known as: IGRA Test, TB Gold Test, Interferon-gamma Release Assay

TB Gold Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,000. Uses Enzyme Immunoassay on Whole Blood samples. Results in Results are typically available the next day after sample receipt at the lab.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Blood Test🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

To detect latent or active tuberculosis infection by measuring the cell-mediated immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens, aiding in diagnosis and prevention of disease progression.

Test Code
4548
Price
₹4,000
Sample Type
Whole Blood
Result Time
Results are typically available the next day after sample receipt at the lab.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Enzyme Immunoassay
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation required. Inform your doctor about any medications or health conditions.

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm using a needle. The process is quick and minimally invasive.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball to stop bleeding. You may resume normal activities immediately.

Timeline: Results are typically available the next day after sample receipt at the lab.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation required. Stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing for blood draw.
2
During the Test:A healthcare professional will clean the area, insert a needle to draw blood, and collect samples in specified tubes. The process takes about 5-10 minutes.
3
After the Test:You may feel slight discomfort or bruising at the puncture site. Apply pressure and avoid heavy lifting with that arm for a few hours.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To detect latent or active tuberculosis infection by measuring the cell-mediated immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens, aiding in diagnosis and prevention of disease progression.

How to Prepare

  • Collect 1 mL whole blood in each set of special QuantiFERON TB Gold tubes
  • Shake tubes vigorously at least 10 times for thorough mixing
  • Do not centrifuge before incubation
  • Ship at room temperature to reach lab within 16 hours OR incubate at 37°C for 16-24 hours, then centrifuge and ship refrigerated
  • Alternatively, collect 4 mL whole blood in a Green top (Sodium/Lithium heparin) tube and ship refrigerated without freezing

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670

"This test is crucial for detecting latent TB infection and preventing progression to active tuberculosis. Early diagnosis helps in timely treatment and reduces transmission risk."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeWhole Blood
Sample Volume1 mL or 4 mL
ContainerQuantiFERON TB Gold tubes or Green top (Sodium/Lithium heparin) tube
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Room Temperature: 16 hours
Refrigerator: 72 hours
Frozen: Not applicable
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed or clotted sample
  • Insufficient sample volume
  • Incorrect tube type or improper mixing
  • Sample received beyond stability period

Understanding Your Results

Results are interpreted based on interferon-gamma levels. A positive result suggests TB infection, while a negative result indicates no infection. Indeterminate results require repeat testing or alternative diagnostics.
📊

Negative

No evidence of TB infection. Low risk of latent TB.

📊

Positive

Likely Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Further evaluation needed for active vs. latent TB.

📊

Indeterminate

Inconclusive result. Consider repeat test or clinical correlation.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If you experience symptoms of TB such as persistent cough, fever, or weight loss, or if you have been in contact with someone with TB, consult a doctor immediately for evaluation and testing.

Limitations

  • Cannot distinguish between latent and active TB infection
  • May yield indeterminate results in immunocompromised individuals
  • Requires proper sample collection and processing for accuracy

Risks & Considerations

  • Minor bruising or pain at the puncture site
  • Rare risk of infection or fainting
  • No significant risks associated with the test itself

Interfering Factors

  • Immunosuppressive therapy
  • Recent BCG vaccination
  • Technical errors in sample handling or incubation
  • Severe immunodeficiency

Compare With Similar Tests

TestTB Gold Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) TestTB Skin Test (TST)Sputum CultureChest X-rayGeneXpert MTB/RIF
ComparisonTB Gold Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TB Gold IGRA Test?
It is a blood test that detects tuberculosis infection by measuring the immune response to TB bacteria, used as an alternative to the TB skin test.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected in special tubes, incubated, and analyzed for interferon-gamma release using enzyme immunoassay.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates likely infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, requiring further medical evaluation to distinguish latent from active TB.
Is fasting required for the test?
No, no special preparation or fasting is required for the TB Gold IGRA Test.
How accurate is the TB Gold IGRA Test?
The test is highly accurate with low false-positive rates, especially in BCG-vaccinated individuals, but results should be interpreted clinically.
Can the test distinguish between latent and active TB?
No, the test detects TB infection but cannot differentiate between latent and active disease; additional tests are needed.
What are the symptoms of tuberculosis?
Common symptoms include persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, fatigue, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available the next day after sample collection at DNA Labs India.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test across many cities in India.
What is the cost of the test?
The TB Gold IGRA Test costs INR 4000 at DNA Labs India, with no additional charges for home collection.
Are there any risks associated with the test?
Risks are minimal, such as slight bruising or discomfort from the blood draw, but serious complications are rare.
How does this test compare to the TB skin test?
Unlike the TB skin test, the IGRA test requires only one visit, is not affected by BCG vaccination, and provides more specific results.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

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Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

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