TB blood test
(QuantiFERON‑TB Gold).
This blood test checks for TB infection, and is commonly required for university enrolment, medical and nursing placements, and occupational health screening. Unlike the skin-based Mantoux test, it needs just one visit, with no return appointment for a reading. GPhC-registered pharmacist, no GP referral needed.
One blood sample, no return visit.
This test, known as an IGRA (interferon-gamma release assay), checks whether your immune system has previously encountered the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. It’s used to identify latent TB infection, where someone carries the bacteria without being unwell or infectious, which is the case for the large majority of people who test positive.
Unlike the Mantoux skin test, this blood test isn’t affected by a previous BCG vaccination, so it gives a clearer result if you were vaccinated as a child. It’s a single blood sample, sent for laboratory analysis, with no need to return for a reading a few days later.
Is this test right for you?
Many universities, particularly for medical, nursing and other clinical courses, require evidence of TB status before starting.
Commonly required for healthcare, laboratory and other roles with a recognised TB exposure risk.
Those who have lived in a country with higher TB rates are often asked to provide evidence of their TB status.
A negative result here is generally required before BCG vaccination, unless you already have a clear BCG scar or documented vaccination history.
This test gives a clearer result than the Mantoux test if you were vaccinated as a child, since it isn’t affected by the vaccine.
Full pricing available on this page ↓. Prices subject to change, please confirm at the clinic.
How the test works.
Book your appointment
A quick discussion of why you need the test, for example a course, job, or placement deadline, helps us make sure your certificate meets what’s being asked of you.
Blood sample taken
A single blood sample, taken by venepuncture, a standard blood draw from the arm.
Sample sent for laboratory analysis
Results are typically available in about 3 working days.
Certificate provided
Your result is provided in a format suitable for occupational health, university or placement requirements, with the date and result clearly recorded.
Book your TB blood test.
Same-day and same-week appointments often available. No return visit needed for a reading.
Opening hours
Mon–Fri 9am–5pm · Sat & Sun 9am–5pm (private services only)
Call us
113 Chester Road, Sunderland SR4 7HG · GPhC Registered
Book — TB Blood Test (IGRA)
Veritas Pharmacy · 113 Chester Road, Sunderland SR4 7HG
TB blood test prices.
The test fee and the blood draw (phlebotomy) are separate charges. Prices are subject to change, please confirm at the clinic before booking.
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| TB blood test (QuantiFERON‑TB Gold) | £165.00 |
| Phlebotomy (blood draw) | £35.00 |
TB blood test FAQs.
What does this test check?
How is this different from the Mantoux test?
How much does this test cost?
How long do results take?
What happens if my result is positive?
Do I need this test before having the BCG vaccine?
Related services.
Mantoux Test
The skin-test alternative for TB screening, a lower-cost option if you have time for a second visit.
Learn more →BCG Vaccination
If your test comes back negative and you need protection against TB, this is usually the next step.
Learn more →All Blood Tests
See our full range of private blood tests, with results typically available in 24–48 hours.
Learn more →