Lessons Learned from Implementation of an Interferon Gamma Release Assay to Screen for Latent Tuberculosis Infection in a Large Multicenter Observational Cohort Study in Brazil

• DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01163-21
• Publication Date: 2021-12-01T10:30:31Z
• Authors: Allyson G. Costa; Brenda K. S. Carv...; Mariana Araújo-Pe...; Hiochelson N. S. ...; Renata Spener-Gomes; Alexandra B. Souza; Adriano Gomes-Silva; Alice M. S. Andrade; Elisangela C. Silva; María B. Arriaga; Aline Benjamin; Michael S. Rocha; Adriana S. R. Mor...; Jamile G. Oliveira; Marina C. Figueiredo; Megan M. Turner; Betina Durovni; Solange Cavalcante; Afranio L. Kritski; Valeria C. Rolla; Timothy R. Sterling; Bruno B. Andrade; Marcelo Cordeiro-...
• Keywords: QuantiFERON; Gold standard (test); Interferon γ

The interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) has emerged as a useful tool for identifying latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). This can be performed through testing platforms such the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus) assay. in vitro test been incorporated into several guidelines worldwide and recently considered by World Health Organization (WHO) diagnosis of LTBI. possibility systematically implementing IGRAs QFT-Plus centers that perform LTBI screening accelerated decreased availability tuberculin skin (TST) countries. Nevertheless, process to implement IGRA routine clinical care many gaps. study utilized expertise acquired laboratory teams Regional Prospective Observational Research Tuberculosis (RePORT)-Brazil consortium during protocol implementation (TB) close contacts. RePORT-Brazil includes research sites from Brazilian cities is largest multicenter cohort TB contacts country date. Operational logistical challenges faced all laboratories are described, well solutions were developed led successful establishment RePORT-Brazil. descriptions problems identified resolved this assist IGRAs, addition manufacturers providing effective technical support. will facilitate countries with large burdens, Brazil. IMPORTANCE persons Although utmost importance, our knowledge there scarce information on identification systematic scale. Thus,