Introduction of a Latent TB infection (LTBI) screening programme detects cases of active tuberculosis and hepatitis B and C

Introduction: In 2015, Public Health England introduced a LTBI screening programme for individuals from high TB incidence countries (>150/100000). The screening programme records HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C serology. Patients with a positive interferon-g release assay (IGRA) are referred to our TB clinic. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of LTBI patients in Greenwich before (2011-2015) and after (2016-2017) the introduction of the LTBI screening programme. We recorded viral serology status and treatment outcome. Results: Introduction of the LTBI screening programme resulted in increased viral serology testing in LTBI patients (Figure 1). The programme identified 4 cases of chronic Hepatitis B and 1 case of Hepatitis C. Importantly, 3 patients referred to clinic with a positive IGRA were diagnosed and treated for active TB (Figure 2). Conclusions: In addition to identifying and treating patients with LTBI, the screening programme has directly resulted in the diagnosis of cases of active TB and viral hepatitis. Early detection has potentially reduced transmission of these communicable diseases.