This project aims to demonstrate the feasibility of developing software to support use of an improved test to detect latent tuberculosis infection(LTBI) with maximum throughput. Using the Cellestis QFT-GIT test, blood is collected directly into tubes containing TB-specific antigens ESAT-6, CFP-10, and TB7.7 as well as into positive and negative control tubes for each patient. In previous detailed analysis of clinical performance and quality compliance, QFT-GIT has shown strong potential as a replacement for the problematic tuberculin skin test(TST). Since it is more specific, its use could prevent much of the human and dollar cost of current inappropriate treatment. The QFT-GIT is, however, more expensive to administer to large groups with current analysis procedures. The software must evaluate the quality of the run, acceptability of clinical results from the batch ELISA reader-analyzer and their correct electronic posting in HL7 format through the approved CHCS interface to the military medical record. This project's success would help make the QFT-GIT more practical for routine screening of large groups by supporting its use with a large-capacity fully-automated immunoassay system like the TRITURUS System.
Keywords: Quantiferon, Qft-Git, Mycobacterium Tuberculosis, Tuberculin Skin Test, Tst, Clinical Result, Elisa Reader, Immunoassay System
