Use of IP-10 detection in dried plasma spots for latent tuberculosis infection diagnosis in contacts via mail

Sci Rep. 2019 Mar 8;9(1):3943. doi: 10.1038/s41598-019-40778-1.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to test the use of IP-10 detection in dried plasma from contact studies individuals (contacts of smear positive patients), by comparing it with IP-10 and IFN-γ detection in direct plasma, to establish IP-10 detection in DPS as a useful assay for LTBI diagnosis. Whole blood samples were collected from 80 subjects: 12 with active tuberculosis (TB), and 68 from contact studies. The amount of IFN-γ produced by sensitized T cells was determined in direct plasma by QuantiFERON Gold In-Tube test. IP-10 levels were determined in direct and dried plasma by an in-house ELISA. For dried plasma IP-10 determination, two 25 µl plasma drops were dried in Whatman903 filter paper and sent by mail to the laboratory. Regarding TB patients, 100.0%, 91.7% and 75.0% were positive for IFN-γ detection and IP-10 detection in direct and dried plasma, respectively. In contacts, 69.1%, 60.3% and 48.5% had positive results after IFN-γ and IP-10 in direct and dried plasma, respectively. The agreement among in vitro tests was substantial and IP-10 levels in direct and dried plasma were strongly correlated (r = 0.897). In conclusion, IP-10 detection in dried plasma is a simple and safe method that would help improve LTBI management.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chemokine CXCL10 / blood
  • Contact Tracing
  • Cytokines / blood
  • Dried Blood Spot Testing / methods*
  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interferon-gamma Release Tests / methods
  • Latent Tuberculosis / blood
  • Latent Tuberculosis / diagnosis*
  • Male
  • Postal Service
  • ROC Curve
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • CXCL10 protein, human
  • Chemokine CXCL10
  • Cytokines