Latent Tuberculosis Infection Screening in Migrant Populations
Summary
Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) represents a reservoir of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that can reactivate and cause active disease, particularly among individuals arriving from high-incidence settings. Screening for LTBI in migrant populations is a critical component of tuberculosis control in low-burden countries, aiming both to reduce future cases and to move towards elimination targets. Strategies range from pre-entry radiological assessment to post-arrival immunodiagnostic testing, most commonly using the tuberculin skin test (TST) or interferon-γ release assays (IGRAs). Programmes must balance sensitivity, predictive value and cost, while also addressing logistical challenges such as language barriers, treatment adherence and health-system navigation. Evidence indicates that tailoring screening thresholds to the incidence in countries of origin and optimising the sequence of diagnostic steps can improve completion rates and public health impact. Integrating LTBI screening with broader migrant health services, community engagement and support for preventive therapy is essential to ensure that the full cascade—from testing to treatment completion—is achieved.
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Latent Tuberculosis Infection Screening in Migrant Populations publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in latent tuberculosis infection screening in migrant populations across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI): a state of persistent immune response to M. tuberculosis antigens without signs of active disease.
Interferon-γ release assay (IGRA): a blood-based test measuring interferon-γ release by T cells in response to M. tuberculosis antigens.
Tuberculin skin test (TST): an intradermal injection of purified protein derivative that elicits a delayed hypersensitivity reaction if prior sensitisation has occurred.
Screening cascade: the sequence of steps from initial testing through diagnosis, treatment initiation and completion of preventive therapy.
Cost-effectiveness: an evaluation of the health benefits achieved relative to the resources expended in a given intervention.
References
- Early Release - Uniting for Ukraine Tuberculosis Screening Experience, San Francisco, California, USA - Volume 29, Number 8—August 2023 - Emerging Infectious Diseases journal - CDC. Emerging Infectious Diseases (2023).
- Screening for Tuberculosis Infection among Migrants: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis in the Italian Context. Antibiotics (2023).
- The effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of screening for latent tuberculosis among migrants in the EU/EEA: a systematic review. Eurosurveillance (2018).
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