The whole blood IFN-γ test measuring responses to ESAT-6 andCFP-10 peptide antigens
The QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus) assay is an in vitro diagnostic test using a peptide cocktail simulating ESAT-6 and CFP-10 proteins to stimulate cells in heparinized whole blood. Detection of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is used to identify in vitro responses to those peptide antigens that are associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. QFT-Plus is an indirect test for M. tuberculosis infection (including disease) and is intended for use in conjunction with risk assessment, radiography, and other medical and diagnostic evaluations.