Acceptability of interferon-gamma release assays among healthcare workers who receive routine employee tuberculosis testing. (October 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hirsch-Moverman, Yael; Wall, Kirsten; Weinfurter, Paul; Munk, Elizabeth; Moran, Joyce Ann; Maiuri, Allison; Khan, Amera; DeLuca, Nichlas
• Is Part Of: International journal of occupational and environmental health. Volume 19:Number 4(2013)
• Page Start: 319
• Page End: 324
• Publication Date: 2013-10
• Subjects: Healthcare worker TB screening -- Interferon-gamma release assays -- QuantiFERON -- T-Spot -- TB testing -- Tuberculosis; Industrial hygiene -- Periodicals; Industrial toxicology -- Periodicals; Environmental health -- Periodicals; Consumer goods -- Health aspects -- Periodicals; 613
• DOI: 10.1179/2049396713Y.0000000038
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1077-3525

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) undergo annual testing for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). Objective: Compare acceptability of tuberculin skin test (TST) and interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) among HCWs. Methods: HCWs at four medical centers in the US were administered an acceptability questionnaire including a brief objective description of both tests and eliciting attitudes regarding TST and IGRAs, confidence in results, and likelihood of taking LTBI treatment. Results: Of 406 participants, 75% had never heard of IGRAs. IGRAs were preferred to TST. Belief in accuracy of hypothetical positive results of TST or IGRA and willingness to accept LTBI treatment were similar across tests. When presented with hypothetical discordant results, HCWs expressed more confidence in IGRAs. Perceived accuracy of results was the most important factor in test preferences. Conclusions: Although HCWs preferred and indicated more confidence in IGRAs, the likelihood that HCWs would believe LTBI diagnosis and initiate treatment based on positive results was similar for TST and IGRAs.