Do you perform routine screening for latent tuberculosis in a patient who resides in the United States, has frequent, 1-2 week trips to see family in a highly endemic country, but who otherwise has no significant risk factors or high risk exposure activities?

Absolutely. I perform annual screening on persons with the described exposures. The screen is fast, safe, and easy for the patient. A goal is to eliminate all new cases of tuberculosis in this country. To accomplish this, we must identify all potential cases and treat them accordingly.

If an individual has qualifying risk factors for latent TB, including frequent travel with relatively prolonged stays to TB endemic regions, I do offer and perform testing for latent TB. This is an opportunity to identify individuals with latent TB and offer treatment. Failing to screen is a missed ...