Q: With reference to the Immigration Medical Examination, how long are TST/IGRA and chest X-ray results valid after they are obtained by the USCIS-approved CIVIL Surgeon?

A: The immigration medical exam is intended to be a “snapshot” of the applicant’s medical status. Therefore, the TST/IGRA and chest X-ray results must be closely related in time to the physical examination and laboratory results. There should not be a very big gap between the conduction of the test and the time the applicant submits the report. This is to avoid any complications during Visa processing.

Q: Can prior TST or IGRA results submitted by an outside doctor’s office be accepted by the Civil Surgeon, in lieu of performing the TST or IGRA?

A: No. A prior negative TST or IGRA result cannot be accepted since the Civil Surgeon must verify that the person applying for immigration benefits is the person appearing for the immigration medical exam. This is including any required tests such as the TST. However, a positive TST or IGRA result may be accepted based on an exception outlined in the TB updates.

Q: What is LTBI and when should an applicant be classified with it?

A: LTBI is Latent T B Infection. All those applicants who:

• Have recently arrived in the U.S. (arrived within the last 5 years) from countries with a high TB prevalence,
• Have a TST reaction of 10mm or greater of induration and
• Have no evidence of TB disease

should be classified with LTBI.