Early diagnosis of tuberculosis using an INF-γ assay in a child with HIV-1 infection and a very low CD4 count

Abstract

An 11-y-old girl diagnosed with HIV-1, presented with prolonged pyrexia and a non-reactive tuberculin skin test. An INF-γ assay (ELISpot) was positive and led to administration of tuberculosis treatment. Positive cultures for Mycobacterium tuberculosis followed 6 weeks later. INF-γ assays should be considered as first line investigations in HIV-1 infected subjects when TB is a diagnostic possibility.