Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that usually affects the lungs.  Not everyone who is infected with TB actually gets sick.  Inactive or latent TB is when a person has the Tuberculosis bacteria in their body but it is kept in check by their immune system.  People with latent TB do not have any symptoms and cannot spread the disease to others.  About 5-10% of latent TB cases develop into an active infection.  Any case of inactive TB may become active but certain risk factors make it more likely that this will occur.  One of these conditions is Diabetes.  Diabetes does not cause Tuberculosis, but being diabetic increases a person's risk should they be exposed to TB or have a latent TB infection.

What is the connection between Diabetes and TB?

Diabetes is a condition where the body doesn't produce enough insulin, a hormone that allows the body to process sugar or glucose into energy.  Increased sugar levels from diabetes can damage the organs, cause inflammation, and weaken the immune system.  This means that people with diabetes who are exposed to TB or already have a latent TB infection are more likely to develop active Tuberculosis.  People with diabetes and TB have a much higher likelihood of severe illness and death as well as being more likely to develop recurring TB infections after treatment.  Almost 20% of TB cases in the USA also have diabetes.  This is higher than the worldwide average which is closer to 15%.    

Should people with Diabetes be tested for Tuberculosis?

Over time, TB has become less of a problem in the United States.  However, there are still 9-10 thousand reported cases of TB in the US each year.  People with the highest risk are those who live or work in settings where large groups of people live in close quarters such as prisons, hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers.  Anyone who is at risk for Tuberculosis infection should get a test to screen themselves.  People with diabetes or other conditions that can weaken the immune system should be especially cautious and get tested.  Conditions that contribute to a weakened immune system include HIV, cancer, kidney disease, and organ transplants.    Detecting TB and treating it when it is still latent can help avoid more serious health complications.  

Can a Blood Test Detect Latent TB?

Standard TB testing like the Quantiferon Gold or T-spot test can usually detect an inactive TB infection.  These blood tests, called interferon-gamma release assays or IGRAs, measure how the body's immune system reacts to TB proteins.  Most positive test results indicate a latent TB infection but the test does not differentiate between active and inactive TB disease.  Following up with your doctor regarding positive test results is important.  Follow-up testing may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis.  Remember that latent TB does not cause any symptoms so even if you feel fine, getting tested when you are at risk is a great way to protect your health.

How to get a TB Blood Test near you

If diabetes puts you at risk of TB infection, don't wait to get tested.  Request A Test makes it easy and affordable to get a TB blood test.  Order lab testing from us and we provide the medical order.  This means there is no need to see your own doctor or go through insurance.  Our partnership with 2 of the largest lab companies in the USA means you can get tested at over 7,000 locations nationwide.  We offer both of the FDA-approved blood tests for Tuberculosis, the Quantiferon Gold and T-Spot.   If you need other lab testing, we have hundreds of additional options to choose from.  Just order and go to the lab the same day.  You can buy a test online or call our team at 888-732-2348 during business hours.  Your health is your most valuable asset and Request A Test empowers you to protect it.

Sources:

TB and diabetes

TB Risk and People with Diabetes | Tuberculosis (TB) | CDC

About Inactive Tuberculosis | Tuberculosis (TB) | CDC

Your Immune System and Diabetes | Diabetes | CDC

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