New TB skin test could spare rheumatoid patients from hidden infection

NCT ID NCT06796647

Recruiting now Diagnosis Sponsor: Chinese University of Hong Kong Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tests a new skin test (C-TST) to find hidden tuberculosis (TB) infection in people with rheumatic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis who are about to start powerful medications called biologics. These drugs can reactivate dormant TB, so accurate screening is critical. Researchers will compare the new test with standard skin and blood tests in 100 adults, then follow them for two years to see who develops active TB.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: ESAT6/CFP10 skin test (C-TST)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a more accurate and convenient way to detect hidden TB infection in people with rheumatic diseases, helping prevent active TB when they start certain medications.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 100 participants. The new test may not prove more accurate than existing methods, and results may not apply to all patient groups.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

rheumatic disorder tuberculosis active tuberculosis prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

TUBERCULOSIS (TB)

Contacts and locations

Locations

S.H. Ho Research Centre for Infectious Diseases
RECRUITING

Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 0000, China
S.H. Ho Research Centre for Infectious Diseases
NOT_YET_RECRUITING

Shatin, Hong Kong, 0000, Hong Kong

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