Understanding the larger picture of the TB testing process helps laboratorians to troubleshoot unusual laboratory findings. The laboratorian is often times the liaison between the physician, public health department, infection prevention and control department, clinic, or other health care provider. Unusual laboratory findings may be explained in many cases by investigating (asking questions) about risk factors, vaccination status, comorbidities, and the like. The following subtopics (TST and IGRA) include sections on interpretation of lab results, as well as limitations present in the current testing methods. Case study questions in the final exam will test your understanding of the relationship between patient history and laboratory test findings.
