What is a Tuberculin Skin Test (TST)?
A. The tuberculin skin test (TST) is the administration of a tuberculin solution in between the different levels of your skin. The Technical Instructions require a Mantoux tuberculin skin test, which is an intradermal injection of the tuberculin solution. After the administration of the test by the civil surgeon’s staff, you will need to return to the civil surgeon’s office within 48 to 72 hours to have the result read. Generally, if the reaction is 4 mm or less, you will not need any further tests for TB. If the reaction is 5mm or greater, you are required to have a chest x-ray as a means of additional screening for TB. There are certain exceptions that do not require you to undergo another TST if you had one previously. If possible, you should bring written documentation of any previous TB screening to your appointment with the civil surgeon so that the civil surgeon is able to determine whether you are required to have another one. Q. What is initial testing with interferon gamma re
