Latent TB, to treat or not to treat?

[chalkduster]

Asking on behalf of a good friend of mine:

Anyone know how much it matters to treat or not to treat latent TB as a PT or SPT? Or as anyone working in healthcare in general?

Thanks!

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[MedicineZ0Z]

"Latent TB" from a skin test could very well be a false positive. Until you have a quantiferon done, you don't know if you actually have TB.

 

[chalkduster]

Good point. So let's say he gets the quantiferon, and results are positive. If he chooses not to treat... what would be the cons? More in regards to his ability to work in certain settings or future employer viewpoint...

 

[wiseOldPT]

It would probably at least be a very big headache- like needing to get chest xrays frequently.

 

[KeikoTanaka]

Asking on behalf of a good friend of mine:

Anyone know how much it matters to treat or not to treat latent TB as a PT or SPT? Or as anyone working in healthcare in general?

Thanks!

Does your friend not have a primary to go to? 🤔