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Medical information Clinical review pending

Infection Testing

TB Gold Plus Interferon Gamma Release Assay IGRA Test

The TB Gold Plus IGRA test detects latent tuberculosis infection by measuring the immune response to TB antigens. It's a reliable alternative, especially for those vaccinated with BCG.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
A sample of 5 ml (minimum 4 ml) of whole blood collected in a green top tube (Sodium or Lithium heparin).
Results
Results are typically reported the next day after sample collection.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
Test priceKSh 9,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the TB Gold Plus Interferon Gamma Release Assay IGRA Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Individuals with symptoms suggestive of TB (e.g., persistent cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss).
  • ✓Close contacts of individuals with active TB.
  • ✓Healthcare workers and individuals in high-risk settings.
  • ✓Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV infection, immunosuppressive therapy).
  • ✓Individuals with chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease).
  • ✓Screening before starting certain medications that suppress the immune system.
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test aids in the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) by measuring the T-cell immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis-specific antigens. It is useful for screening individuals at risk of TB exposure or progression to active disease.
The TB Gold Plus Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) Test is a modern diagnostic tool used to detect latent tuberculosis (TB) infections. Unlike traditional tests, this assay measures the immune system's response to specific TB antigens, offering a reliable alternative for diagnosing TB, particularly in individuals who have received the BCG vaccine or those with complex medical histories. This test helps identify individuals who have been infected with the TB bacteria, even if they don't show symptoms of active disease. It is particularly useful for screening individuals at high risk of developing active TB.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for this test.
SampleA sample of 5 ml (minimum 4 ml) of whole blood collected in a green top tube (Sodium or Lithium heparin).
MethodologyInterferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) - measures the release of interferon-gamma by T-lymphocytes when exposed to TB-specific antigens.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
A positive result indicates TB infection (latent or active) but does not distinguish between the two. Further evaluation may be needed to rule out active TB disease. Certain conditions or medications might affect test results. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

Latent TB means you have TB bacteria in your body, but they are inactive and not causing symptoms. You cannot spread latent TB to others, but it can become active later.
The IGRA test is less affected by prior BCG vaccination and generally requires only one visit. It measures the immune response in the blood.
A positive result means you have been infected with TB bacteria. Your doctor will discuss the result and determine if further tests or treatment for latent TB are needed.
No, fasting is not required for the TB Gold Plus IGRA test.
A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from your arm, similar to other routine blood tests.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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