The Journal of hospital infection
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The advent of interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) provides new options for detection of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). This is particularly relevant to healthcare workers (HCWs), who are at higher risk of infection, but who have often also been vaccinated. In this article, we discuss the role of IGRAs for the diagnosis of LTBI in various healthcare settings. ⋯ TB assay has not been adequately assessed in HCWs; the few studies available showed enhanced specificity of T-SPOT. TB when compared to TST. This review confirms the utility of IGRAs as important tools in the prevention and control of tuberculosis in healthcare settings.