In vitro detection and differentiation of active and latent tuberculosis, comprises contacting a sample with native forms of heparin binding haemagglutinin and 6 kDa early secreted antigen target

摘要

A detection method comprises obtaining a biological sample from a mammal being tested, e.g. in the form of a swab, body fluid or biopsy, placing it in contact with the native form of HBHA (heparin binding haemagglutinin) and with ESAT-6 (6 kDa early secreted antigen target) in suitable conditions for the secretion of IFNgamma (interferon gamma). A detection method comprises obtaining a biological sample from a mammal being tested, e.g. in the form of a swab, body fluid or biopsy, placing it in contact with the native form of HBHA (heparin binding haemagglutinin) and with ESAT-6 (6 kDa early secreted antigen target) in suitable conditions for the secretion of IFN-gamma (interferon-gamma). The specific IFN-gamma secretions of HBHA and ESAT-6 are measured, and their ratio is calculated, the ratio being higher than 1:1 with latent tuberculosis and lower than 1 : 1 with active tuberculosis. An independent claim is also included for a kit for detecting the different forms of the disease, including a biological reference sample, a culture medium and IFN-gamma secretion, detection and quantification agents.