Skip to main content
Medical information Clinical review pending

Infection Testing

TB Platinum Interferon Gamma Release Assay IGRA Test

The TB Platinum Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) Test is a blood test used to help detect tuberculosis (TB) infection, including latent TB. It measures the immune system's reaction to TB bacteria.

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.

Ask a question
Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Blood sample (collected in a specific tube).
Results
Results are typically available within 24 hours after sample collection. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. Patients can eat and drink normally before the test.
Test priceKSh 7,000

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 Platinum 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.

+254

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 active TB (e.g., persistent cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss).
  • ✓Individuals who have had close contact with a person with active TB.
  • ✓Individuals with conditions that increase the risk of TB (e.g., HIV infection, diabetes, immunosuppressive therapy).
  • ✓Individuals travelling to or residing in areas with high TB prevalence.
  • ✓Screening for latent TB infection (LTBI) in high-risk populations.
  • ✓Individuals with inconclusive results from tuberculin skin tests (TST).
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test helps detect exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, aiding in the diagnosis of both latent TB infection (LTBI) and active TB disease. It is particularly useful for individuals who may have been exposed to TB or are at higher risk.
The TB Platinum Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) Test is a modern diagnostic tool designed to detect tuberculosis (TB) infection. Unlike traditional tests, this assay measures the immune response to specific TB proteins, providing a more accurate assessment of TB exposure. It is especially important in identifying latent TB infections, which can lead to active disease if not treated.

The IGRA test detects the presence of interferon-gamma, a cytokine produced by T-cells in response to TB antigens. This response indicates whether an individual has been exposed to the TB bacteria, aiding in the diagnosis of both latent and active TB infections.

This test is recommended for individuals who have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with TB, show symptoms of TB (such as persistent cough, fever, night sweats, or weight loss), or are at high risk due to immunocompromising conditions or travel to areas with high TB prevalence.
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. Patients can eat and drink normally before the test.
SampleBlood sample (collected in a specific tube).
MethodologyInterferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) using blood sample analysis.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
A positive IGRA test indicates TB infection (latent or active) but does not distinguish between the two. Further tests may be needed to confirm active TB disease. Certain medical 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

The IGRA test is a blood test that measures the immune response to TB bacteria, while the skin test (TST) involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin under the skin. The IGRA test requires only one visit and is not affected by prior BCG vaccination, unlike the skin test.
A positive IGRA test indicates that you have been infected with TB bacteria at some point. It does not distinguish between latent TB infection (LTBI) and active TB disease. Further evaluation is needed to determine if you have active TB.
No, fasting is not required for the TB Platinum IGRA test. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
The IGRA test is generally considered accurate for detecting TB infection. However, like any medical test, it has limitations and may not be accurate in all individuals. Discuss your specific situation with your doctor.
Yes, home sample collection services are available for your convenience. Please contact the laboratory to arrange for home collection.
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.

Keep exploring

Related tests

View all tests →
Chat on WhatsApp