How to Read the Results of Tuberculosis Skin Test
Tuberculosis (TB) skin test is a simple and effective way to check for TB infection. The test is usually given to people who have been in close contact with someone who has TB, or who have traveled to countries where TB is common.
The TB skin test is a two-step process. First, a small amount of tuberculin, a purified protein derivative (PPD) of the TB bacteria, is injected into the skin of the forearm. The injection site is then checked 48-72 hours later for a reaction.
A positive TB skin test means that the person has been infected with TB bacteria. However, a positive skin test does not always mean that the person has active TB disease. Further testing, such as a chest X-ray or sputum culture, is needed to confirm the diagnosis of active TB disease.
A negative TB skin test means that the person has not been infected with TB bacteria. However, a negative skin test does not always mean that the person is not infected with TB. The test may be falsely negative if the person has recently been vaccinated for TB, or if they have a weakened immune system.
The size of the reaction to the TB skin test is measured in millimeters (mm). The larger the reaction, the more likely it is that the person has been infected with TB bacteria.
Interpretation of TB Skin Test Results
The following table shows the interpretation of TB skin test results:
| Reaction size (mm) | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0-4 mm | Negative |
| 5-9 mm | Indeterminate |
| 10 mm or more | Positive |
Indeterminate results are usually seen in people who have been vaccinated for TB, or who have a weakened immune system. Further testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis of TB infection in these people.
Positive results are usually seen in people who have been infected with TB bacteria. However, further testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis of active TB disease.
What to do if you have a positive TB skin test
If you have a positive TB skin test, you will need to see your doctor for further testing. Further testing may include a chest X-ray, sputum culture, and blood test.
Treatment for TB depends on the type of TB infection you have. Treatment for latent TB infection usually involves taking medication for 6-9 months. Treatment for active TB disease usually involves taking medication for 6-9 months, or longer if the disease is severe.
It is important to complete the full course of treatment for TB. Stopping treatment early can lead to the development of drug-resistant TB, which is more difficult to treat.
How to prevent TB
The best way to prevent TB is to get vaccinated. The TB vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against TB infection. The vaccine is usually given to children, but it can also be given to ***s who are at high risk for TB infection.
Other ways to prevent TB include:
Avoiding close contact with people who have TB
Covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
Washing your hands frequently
Getting regular checkups
If you have any symptoms of TB, such as a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, or weight loss, see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of TB can help prevent the spread of the disease.
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