Abstract
Introduction: Development of new tools for the rapid diagnosis of tuberculosis is a priority. There are few data from high burden countries on the utility of Quantiferon G for the rapid diagnosis of solitary pulmonary nodule.
Material and methods: We evaluated the utility of Quantiferon G in 30 patients with solitary pulmonary nodule which was less than 3 cm. All were Thai people, and all got BCG vaccination. Bronchoscopy with Autofluorescense was done, bronchial washing was sent for AFB stain, TB culture, PCR-TB and cytology. Tuberculin test was also performed.
Results: Tuberculosis test was positive in 16 patients (53%), Quantiferon G was positive in 19 patients (63%)and PCR-TB was positive in 2 patients (6.7%).
Those with positive Quantiferon G were treated with anti tuberculosis drugs for 9 months, all showed satisfactory response.
Among those with negative Quantiferon G,1 year follow up was provided; one turned to be Mycobacterium avium intracellulare, another one developed adenocarcinoma.
Conclusion: Quantiferon G may provide additional useful tool in making decision in managing solitary pulmonary nodule in countries with high incidence of tuberculosis.
- © 2011 ERS
