A milestone for tuberculosis diagnostics:
IP-10-based tuberculosis test now refundable via EBM in Germany
GOP 32670 now also available for IP-10 (interferon-gamma-induced protein 10)
R-Biopharm AG has reached a significant milestone for modern tuberculosis diagnostics in Germany: Since 1 April 2026, the test based on the biomarker IP-10 (interferon-gamma-induced protein 10) for the detection of tuberculosis infection can be billed under the Uniform Assessment Scale (EBM) via fee code (GOP) 32670. This enables, for the first time, the nationwide, reimbursable use of this innovative detection method within the statutory health insurance system in Germany.
Background: GOP 32670 in line with the state of the art
The Evaluation Committee of the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (KBV) has updated GOP 32670, thereby recognising the current state of the art in TB diagnostics. The code, which was previously applicable exclusively for the quantitative determination of interferon-gamma using conventional interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) tests (e.g. QuantiFERON), has been extended to include the option of determining IP-10.
Significance for clinical practice
With its inclusion in the EBM, the IP-10 test is now widely available across the German healthcare system. Laboratories and general practitioners can integrate the test into their diagnostic workflow without additional effort, backed by a clear basis for billing.
IP-10 is a chemokine that is released in significantly higher concentrations than interferon-gamma when the immune system comes into contact with TB antigens. This makes IP-10 a particularly sensitive biomarker for the diagnosis of tuberculosis infections, including latent forms, which are often difficult to detect clinically.
Compared to traditional IGRA tests, the IP-10-based approach is characterised by increased detection sensitivity, which is of considerable clinical benefit, particularly in immunocompromised patients, such as those who are HIV-positive or transplant recipients.
This milestone sends a clear signal: innovative, evidence-based diagnostics are recognised in Germany and made accessible to patients. We are delighted that our IP-10 test enables us to make an active contribution to improving tuberculosis care.
Dr Manuel Hitzler, Medical Science Liaison Manager, TB Diagnostics
About R-Biopharm
R-Biopharm AG, based in Darmstadt, is one of Germany’s leading biotechnology companies. Founded in 1988, the company is now in its second generation of family ownership and sees itself as a pioneer in health and quality of life. Its mission is to ensure the highest possible levels of precision, safety, clarity and certainty in prevention, treatment and cure. R-Biopharm combines research, development and sales under one roof in order to respond to ever-changing challenges with agile processes and to guide the steadily growing global population into a new era of healthcare. The company is represented in more than 120 countries – through 29 subsidiaries and 120 distributors.
