Detection of latent tuberculosis among HIV-infected patients after initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy

This cross-sectional study of 110 individuals examined skin testing for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) after the initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy. Skin test reactivity to one or more of four antigens was found in 98 out of 110 subjects (89%), and was maximal in those whose CD4 cell counts recovered to greater than or equal to100 cells/mm(3). Skin testing is reliable for the identification or exclusion of LTBI once the CD4 cell count recovers to greater than or equal to100 cells/mm(3).