It is also called a PPD test, tuberculin test, or Mantoux test.
The test involves injecting a small amount of fluid containing certain components of the TB bacterium under the skin.
This will cause yourimmune systemto recognize the injected solution as a threat, causing a skin reaction.
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The test requires two visits to your healthcare professional.
The test itself will be administered on the first visit, with the results read on the second.
However, it is not suitable for everyone.
Blood tests are also used, though not as frequently.
The skin test is the preferred test for children under the age of 5.
It is generally not advised to get both a skin and blood test.
Skin tests are also more likely to result in false negatives and false positives than blood tests.
The test uses a very small amount of a solution that contains certain components of the TB bacterium.
However, there is no risk at all of contracting TB from the skin test.
Timing
The test itself is very quick, and the solution can be injected very easily.
This needs to be done between 48 and 72 hours after the test is administered.
If you don’t return within that time, you will need to schedule another test.
There will also be alcohol swabs and gauze pads or cotton balls.
Costs and Health Insurance
There may be a cost or copay associated with this test.
Check with your insurer or your healthcare provider to see what your costs may be.
Check with your state and county health division.
Other Considerations
There are no food or drink restrictions before or after the test.
Be sure to bring your health insurance card, identification, and any needed paperwork with you.
During the Test
You do not need to do anything to prepare for this test.
You will not need to drink anything or change out of your clothing.
Immediately following the injection, the healthcare professional should check that the skin test was administered properly.
If the wheal is less than 6 mm then it will need to be administered again.
Post-Test
Remember to book your follow-up appointment to get your test interpreted.
This needs to be done within 48-72 hours of the test being administered.
However, you will be advised to keep the test site uncovered and not scratch or rub the area.
If someone is having a serious allergic reaction, call 911.
If the result is positive, there will be swelling, however the size differs depending on the patient.
More tests must be done to check whether there is active disease.
Computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used as well.
TB can be successfully treated.
A short-course treatment regimen may be given for three to four months.Longer treatment regimens are six to nine months.
Your healthcare provider will add a note to their medical files indicating you have received treatment for TB.
This will help healthcare providers who may conduct future TB skin tests interpret the results.
For people at low risk of future TB exposure, one-time testing may be recommended.
A Word From Verywell
The TB skin test is a quick and relatively painless procedure.
If you still have questions or worries, then speak to your healthcare professional.
They can provide any other information and help to put your mind at ease.
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