IFN‐γ is a classical proinflammatory cytokine which is first induced by phagocytes in the innate immune system due to recognition of Mtb with pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and subsequently by activated T cells.16 It has been used to define infection status in exposed household contacts following stimulation with Mtb‐specific antigens, as seen with the QFT assay.14 However, it is the balance between pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory mediators together that determines the outcome of the immune response to Mtb. The gene discussed is IFNG; the disease is infection.