Table 1 The inclusion and exclusion criteria for enrolled groups

ATB

a) Positive results of Mtb culture/GeneXpert/PCR/ acid-fast staining of sputum or other samples AND

b) Clinical manifestations (fever, cough, chest pain, night sweats, and weight loss, etc.) AND

c) Imaging characteristics suggesting ATB AND

d) Untreated with anti-tuberculosis treatment.

Patients with hematologic malignancies, HIV infection, during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

LTBI

a) Positive results of IGRAs AND

b) Laboratory results and imaging characteristics not suggesting ATB AND

c) Imaging in six months not suggesting evidence of previous TB.

Previous TB

a) Laboratory results and imaging characteristics suggesting evidence of previous TB AND

b) Previous TB history.

HC

a) Negative results of IGRAs AND

b) Clinical manifestations and imaging in six months not suggesting ATB and evidence of previous TB AND

c) No previous history of ATB AND

d) Denial of history of TB exposure.