Interferon gamma assays for tuberculosis in children.
The data of interferon gamma assays for tuberculosis in children is still in its infancy. It is further complicated by the designs and methodology of available studies. These tests do have much advantage over Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) in malnourished or HIV positive children where TST is mostly negative. Both TST or interferon gamma assays are not diagnostic in 100% cases of childhood tuberculosis. Even combined TST and interferon gamma assays cannot diagnose tuberculosis in 100% cases. Similar and well designed follow up studies at multiple centers are needed to evaluate these tests and to compare with TST.
Quaid-e-Azamn Medical College, Bahawalpur, Saudi Arabia.
Abdul
A
Rehman
Irfanullah
D001681:Biological Assay; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D007371:Interferon-gamma; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology
D007371:Interferon-gamma