Specimen Requirements

Whole blood samples must be collected and processed in accordance with the QIAGEN QuantiFERON®-TB Gold Plus Blood Collection Tubes instructions for use.

1. Collection:
   1. Collect 4-5 ml of whole blood with syringe. With transfer device, fill each tube with 0.8-1.2 ml of blood. Use black 0.5 cm marking on each tube as a guide, blood meniscus must be within the black marking.
   2. Immediately shake tubes firmly 10 times to ensure inner surface of tube is coated with blood. This will dissolve antigens on the tube walls.
   3. Label all QFT-Plus tubes with appropriate stickers. Tubes must be transferred to a 37C incubator as soon as possible and within 16 hours of collection. If there is a delay in incubation tubes can be stored at room temperature for up to 16 hours. Invert tubes 10 times prior to placing in 37c incubator.
   4. Incubate the QFT-Plus blood collection tubes UPRIGHT at 37 (± 1 degree) for 16-24 hours.
      1. Note:  After incubation, the QFT-Plus blood collection tubes may be stored between 4C and 27C for up to 3 days prior to centrifugation.
   5. Centrifuge tubes for 15 minutes at 2000-3000 RCF (g).
   6. Store refrigerated 2-8c until ready to test.