In individuals who undergo serial TSTs, it is possible that, after a negative result in the initial TST, a positive result in the second year of testing may have been the result of a boosted reaction.
The mean age of contacts with a boosting reaction was 42.3 ± 21.1 and with no boosting was 28.7 ± 21.7 (p = 0.01).
Boosting reaction was defined as a second TST ≥ 10 mm with an increase in induration ≥ 6 mm related to the first TST.
Boosting reaction was defined as having a reaction of ≥ 10 mm on the second TST with an increase in induration of at least 6 mm compared to first TST [ 3, 4].
Boosting reaction was defined as having a reaction of ≥ 10 mm on test 2, with an increase in induration of at least 6 mm related to test 1 [ 7, 8].
Despite the relatively high specificity of TST conversion for recent infection, we cannot exclude the possibility that a fraction of the observed conversion is attributable to a boosted reaction as a result of repeated TST.
That's why car makers, parts suppliers and startup companies are betting on a host of new technologies from simulation software to boost drivers' reaction speeds to night-piercing cameras to anti-slumber seats to make the roads safer (and to put more vehicles on them).
Also, repeated testing using tuberculin during their employment may further boost their reaction to the TST.
In particular, Cry1Ac which is expressed in Intacta soybeans is known to also act as an adjuvant that can boost immune reactions to antigens [52]; thus the Bt toxin can for example enhance the reaction of the immune system to allergens being present in the diet.
