TB blood test · North London
TB blood test (IGRA).
Blood taken at the clinic.
The IGRA (QuantiFERON-TB Gold) blood test checks for TB infection, including latent TB, which causes no symptoms. We take your blood at our clinic in North London, with same day appointments subject to availability, and the laboratory result usually comes back within a few working days.
- Price
- £165, blood draw included
- Results
- Usually within a few working days
- Referral
- Not needed
Who it is for
When an IGRA blood test helps
- Occupational health clearance for NHS and private healthcare work, when your employer accepts an IGRA blood test.
- Medical, nursing and other healthcare students asked for TB screening before placements.
- Overseas work or study that asks for an IGRA blood test result.
- Screening before starting treatment that weakens the immune system, such as biologic medicines, when your specialist team asks for it.
- Checking for latent TB after time with someone who had TB, or after living or working where TB is common.
Employers, universities and overseas authorities set their own rules. Check which test and which paperwork they accept before you book.
How it works
One blood sample, then the laboratory
The test measures how your immune system responds to proteins from TB bacteria in a sample of blood taken from a vein in your arm. You do not need to fast. The laboratory result usually comes back within a few working days. A doctor reviews it before it is shared with you.
The price of £165 includes taking the blood. If your employer or course needs a letter as well as the laboratory report, that is a separate service, priced on our medical report fees page.
Clinique Alpa, 466 Green Lanes, Palmers Green, London N13 5PA. Call 020 8882 8088 or message us on WhatsApp to book. Please do not send confidential medical information by WhatsApp.
If you feel unwell
Symptoms need a doctor, not only a test
A cough lasting more than three weeks, a high temperature, night sweats, losing weight without trying or coughing up blood can be signs of active TB and need a medical assessment, not only a blood test. Book an appointment with a doctor, or call NHS 111 for urgent advice.
Questions
TB blood test questions
Can I use this test for a UK visa?
No. UK visa applicants who need a TB test have a chest X-ray at a clinic approved by the Home Office, usually in the country they apply from. Clinique Alpa is not a Home Office approved TB clinic. Our article UK visa TB test: who needs one and where it is done explains the process.
What does a positive result mean?
It means you have probably been infected with TB bacteria at some point. On its own it cannot tell latent TB from active TB, so the doctor explains the result and the next steps, which usually include a chest X-ray and an assessment by a TB service. Latent TB is not infectious, and treatment can stop it becoming active later.
Can a negative result be wrong?
Sometimes. The test can take several weeks after contact with TB to turn positive, and it can miss infection in people whose immune system is weakened. If you have been in contact with TB recently, the doctor may advise repeating the test later.
Does the BCG vaccine affect this test?
No. Unlike the skin test, the IGRA blood test is not affected by a previous BCG vaccination.
I was in close contact with someone who has TB. Should I pay for a test?
The NHS TB service usually contacts close contacts and offers testing free of charge. A private test is an option if you would rather not wait or need a result for work. Either way, tell the doctor about the contact.
Do I need a referral or a consultation first?
No referral is needed. Call the clinic to book the blood draw and to check whether your employer or course needs any particular paperwork. If you have symptoms, or the result is positive, the doctor discusses a consultation with you and confirms its fee before booking.
Sources: NHS: tuberculosis (TB) and GOV.UK: tuberculosis tests for visa applicants.