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Latent tuberculosis infection screening (LTBI)

Infectious Disease

Risk-basedBased on risk and exposure (repeat if ongoing risk)Blood test: 5-10 minutes; skin test: minutes plus a return visit

LTBI screening tests for TB infection in people at higher risk, before symptoms appear.

Guidance for your location

Location
Country
Select a country only if you want local program matching.
Region-specific program details are not available for this location yet, but you can still use the general profile information.
Recommended Age
Risk-based
Frequency
Based on risk and exposure (repeat if ongoing risk)
Duration
Blood test: 5-10 minutes; skin test: minutes plus a return visit

Overview

Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) means TB bacteria are present in the body but are not causing active disease or symptoms. People with LTBI are not contagious, but LTBI can later progress to active TB disease, especially in higher-risk situations. Screening is risk-based and usually done with an IGRA blood test or a TST skin test. If a test is positive, clinicians confirm there is no active TB (often with a symptom review and chest imaging) and discuss preventive treatment options.

Who Should Get This Screening

  • People at increased risk (for example, birth or long-term residence in regions with higher TB prevalence, recent exposure to TB, or certain congregate settings).
  • People with conditions or medications that weaken the immune system may be screened based on risk and planned treatment.
  • If you have cough, fevers, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, you need evaluation for active TB rather than LTBI screening.

What to Expect

Most commonly, a blood test (IGRA) is drawn. Some settings use a skin test (TST), which requires a return visit in 2-3 days to read the result. Positive screening tests are followed by additional evaluation to rule out active TB.

How to Prepare

Follow these tips to prepare for your screening

  • No special preparation.

Benefits

  • Identifies LTBI so preventive treatment can reduce the chance of developing active TB.
  • Protects the person and helps reduce community transmission risk.
  • Provides a clear follow-up pathway when results are positive.

Things to Consider

  • False positives and false negatives can occur.
  • A positive test can lead to additional testing (for example, chest imaging).
  • Treatment decisions are individualized and can involve medication side effects; discuss pros and cons with your clinician.

Guideline Source: USPSTF LTBI screening (increased risk; see Guidance for your location section above)

This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.