How is the Mantoux PPD skin test given?
A small amount of a harmless substance called PPD Tuberculin is placed just under the top layer of the skin on the forearm with a small needle and syringe. It is not a shot, only a small prick is felt. What is the reason for the skin test? The test can show if a person has ever been “infected by” tuberculosis (TB) germs. There are several kinds of TB skin tests, but the most reliable is the Mantoux PPD skin test. What happens after the skin test is given? The test is read 48 to 72 hours after it has been given. Generally, a swelling of 10 mm. or more is considered positive. • If the PPD test is negative, no further action needs to be taken. • If the PPD test is positive, a chest X-ray will be needed to see if the germs have damaged the lungs. What does a positive test mean? It means that TB germ is in the body or the person is “infected”. However, it does not necessarily mean that he/she has TB disease. If the chest X-ray is normal and there are no symptoms, the TB germs are probably i
Related Questions
- What is the difference between a TB Screening Assessment or a PPD skin test?
- What is the difference between a TB Screening Assessment or a PPD skin test?
- What does a positive PPD or TB skin test mean?
- How is the Mantoux PPD skin test given?
- What is a mantoux (PPD) skin test?
- What is a mantoux (PPD) skin test?
