School Screening for Tuberculosis in Norway
Author Information
Author(s): Winje Brita Askeland, Oftung Fredrik, Korsvold Gro Ellen, Mannsåker Turid, Ly Ingvild Nesthus, Harstad Ingunn, Dyrhol-Riise Anne Margarita, Heldal Einar
Primary Institution: Norwegian Institute of Public Health
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of QFT positivity among TST positive children identified in school-based screening?
Conclusion
The study suggests a very low prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection among 9th grade school children in Norway.
Supporting Evidence
- Only 9% of TST positive children had a confirmed positive QFT result.
- QFT positivity was associated with larger TST induration and known exposure to tuberculosis.
- Most children with positive TST reactions had indurations in the range of 6–14 mm.
Takeaway
The study found that most children who tested positive for tuberculosis using a skin test did not actually have the infection, showing that the skin test can give false positives.
Methodology
This cross-sectional study involved TST positive children from seven hospitals in Norway, who underwent a QFT test and completed a questionnaire on risk factors.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the involvement of multiple public health nurses in the TST screening process.
Limitations
The study may have missed some TST-positive children due to non-standardized administration or reading of TST.
Participant Demographics
Children in 9th grade (age 14-15), including first and second generation immigrants.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Confidence Interval
6.4 – 11.2
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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