Chest X-rays and CT Results from Tuberculosis Screening in Healthcare Workers Using Interferon- Gamma Release Assay (IGRA)

Abstract

Background: To examine the prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) in healthcare workers (HCWs) with positive chest X-ray (CXR) and computed tomography (CT) findings and to ascertain the function of imaging in the diagnosis of TB. Aims & Objectives: This study’s objectives included determining the prevalence of TB based on CXR and CT findings in healthcare professionals with positive IGRA results as well as the function of imaging in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary TB. Materials and Methods: Retrospective investigations were conducted on IGRA positive people among 1976 hospital staff who had been TB-screened using the test. CXR was positive for clustered nodular and/or linear streaky opacities in the upper lung zone. The CT results were categorised. as being active, uncertain, inactive, or typical. The class was regarded as CT-positive if it was active or undetermined. Results: In 195 patients, the IGRA was positive. 190 participants (98.95%) and 90 subjects (46.87%) had CXR and CT, respectively. There were 6 of 190 and 14 of 90 patients with CXR- and CT-positive findings, respectively. 9 and 5 of the 14 CT-positive individuals had active and indeterminate TB results, respectively. All 14 CT-positive participants had negative microbiological reactions for TB. Nine CT-positive people were given empirical anti-TB drugs, and 5 of these 14 subjects tested negative for pulmonary TB on the CXR. Conclusion: CT helped diagnose asymptomatic TB in IGRA-positive HCWs.