Tuberculin Skin
TBS
Description
"Tuberculin Skin Test" checks for tuberculosis (TB) exposure by injecting a small amount of tuberculin just under the skin. After 48 to 72 hours, the site is checked for a reaction that indicates TB exposure. Doctors use this test to screen people at higher risk, including healthcare workers or those with weakened immune systems. A positive result leads to further testing. This simple test supports early detection and helps prevent the spread of active or latent TB.
Category
Microbes
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
No biological sample is needed for this test.
Units
Millimeters
Procedure Category
Insert, Assess
Test Group
Microbial Assessment Group, Infection Group
Test Group Description
Microbial Assessment Group: Tests in this group analyze microbial presence and activity in various samples, offering insights into microbial populations and their impact on health. They help identify specific microorganisms, assess microbial diversity, and evaluate microbial functions in different environments. Infection Group: Tests within this group detect markers indicative of various infections, aiding in the diagnosis and management of infectious diseases.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: Not Available
SI Unit: Not Available
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: <5 mm (Negative)
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Abnormal results may indicate:
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (Advanced stage of HIV infection characterized by severe immune system suppression)
Active tuberculosis infection (Current presence of tuberculosis bacteria in the body)
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (Virus causing immunodeficiency)
Latent tuberculosis infection (Presence of tuberculosis bacteria in a dormant state)
Non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections
Previous Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccination
Recent measles vaccination
Recent varicella vaccination
Key Reasons For Testing
Tuberculosis Screening: Identifies individuals at risk of TB infection for early detection of latent TB.
Diagnosis of Latent TB Infection: A positive TST indicates TB exposure, suggesting latent infection.
Evaluation of TB Risk Factors: Assesses risk factors like close contact, immunosuppression, or immigration from high-prevalence regions.
Screening for TB Infection: Included in routine protocols for healthcare workers, students, and others in high-risk settings.
Preventive Therapy Decision-Making: Guides therapy decisions to prevent latent TB from progressing to active disease.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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