Tuberculosis Test

Procedure Information

What is a Tuberculosis Test?

A Tuberculosis Test is a diagnostic procedure used to detect the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB) infection.

Why would I get a Tuberculosis Test?

A Tuberculosis Test is usually recommended if a person has been exposed to or is showing symptoms of TB infection. It is also recommended to people with weakened immune systems, or those with a history of TB infection or a positive skin test.

What happens during a Tuberculosis Test?

Tuberculosis Test is usually done with a skin test or a blood test. During the skin test, a health care professional will inject a small amount of a protein derived from the TB bacteria in the patient's arm. The abrasion will be checked for the reaction a few days later. For the blood test, a small sample of blood is taken from the patient and tested in a lab for the presence of TB antigens.

What to expect after a Tuberculosis Test?

After the Tuberculosis Test, a person will receive the results from their doctor. If the results are positive, more tests may need to be taken to determine the extent of infection and which course of treatment is necessary.

Conclusion

A Tuberculosis Test is an important diagnostic procedure to check for TB infection. It is usually done with either a skin test or a blood test, and the results are available to the patient soon after the procedure. If the test results are positive, then more tests may be required and the patient should follow their health-care provider's instructions.