The Mantoux test is a widely used test for latent TB. It involves injecting a small amount of a substance called PPD (purified protein derivative) of tuberculin into the skin of your forearm. It's also called the tuberculin skin test (TST). This test is to detect the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB).
Mantoux Test
Here are the basic details for Mantoux Test.
| Also Known As |
Mantoux Test, Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), TB skin test |
| Type |
Skin Test |
Purpose
|
Check For Tuberculosis (TB) Infection |
| Sample Type |
- |
| Preparation |
No Special Preparation Required |
| Fasting |
No |
| Gender |
Unisex |
| Age-Group |
All Ages |
| Normal Value |
Negative |
| Reporting Time |
2 - 3 Days |
| Cost |
100 - 800* INR |
*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.
Mantoux Test Means
Here are some key points about the Mantoux test in bullet format:
- The Mantoux test is a type of skin test used to check for tuberculosis (TB) infection.
- It is also called the tuberculin skin test (TST).
- The test involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin, a substance derived from the TB bacterium, into the skin of the forearm.
- The injection site is then observed for any reaction, usually after 48 to 72 hours.
- A positive reaction means that the person has been exposed to TB bacteria, but it does not necessarily mean that they have active TB disease.
- The test results are interpreted based on the size of the reaction, measured in millimeters of induration (swelling).
- The cutoff for a positive reaction may vary depending on the individual's risk factors for TB.
- False positive and false negative results are possible, so the test is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and medical evaluations.
- The Mantoux test is commonly used in screening programs for TB, as well as for monitoring people who have a higher risk of developing active TB, such as healthcare workers and close contacts of TB patients.
Mantoux Test Purpose
Here are some key points about the purpose of the Mantoux test.
- The Mantoux test is used to determine if a person has been exposed to the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB).
- The test helps to identify people who may have latent TB infection, which means they have been infected with TB bacteria but do not have active TB disease.
- It is also used to identify people who have active TB disease, although additional diagnostic tests are usually needed to confirm a diagnosis of active TB.
- The Mantoux test is often used as a screening tool for TB, particularly in high-risk populations such as healthcare workers, immigrants, and refugees.
- It can also be used to monitor people who are at higher risk of developing active TB, such as those with compromised immune systems.
- The purpose of the test is to detect TB infection early so that appropriate treatment can be initiated to prevent the development of active TB disease and to reduce the spread of TB to others.
Mantoux Test Preparation
Here are some key points about the preparation for, during, and after the Mantoux test.
Before the test:
- No special preparation is needed for the Mantoux test.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies or medical conditions that may affect the test.
During the test:
- The test is performed by injecting a small amount of tuberculin, a substance derived from the TB bacterium, into the skin of your forearm.
- The injection site is marked and you will be instructed to avoid rubbing or scratching the area.
- You may feel a slight prick or burn when the tuberculin is injected.
- The test takes only a few minutes to perform.
After the test:
- You will need to keep the injection site dry and avoid rubbing or scratching the area.
- You should not cover the injection site with a bandage or any other type of dressing.
- You will need to return to your healthcare provider's office after 48 to 72 hours to have the injection site checked for any reaction.
- If you experience redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site, inform your healthcare provider.
Mantoux Test Procedure
Here are some key points about the procedure of the Mantoux test.
- The Mantoux test is performed by injecting a small amount of tuberculin, a substance derived from the TB bacterium, into the skin of your forearm.
- The injection is typically made with a small needle, and you may feel a slight prick or burn when the tuberculin is injected.
- The injection site is usually the inner surface of the lower arm, about 2-3 inches below the elbow.
- The healthcare provider will use a tuberculin syringe to inject 0.1 ml of tuberculin just under the top layer of the skin.
- The injection site is then marked and you will be instructed to avoid rubbing or scratching the area.
- You will be given a date and time to return to the healthcare provider's office to have the injection site checked for any reaction, usually 48 to 72 hours after the test.
- The test results are interpreted based on the size of the reaction, measured in millimeters of induration (swelling).
- A positive reaction means that the person has been exposed to TB bacteria, but it does not necessarily mean that they have active TB disease.
- The test takes only a few minutes to perform and is generally considered safe and well-tolerated.
Mantoux Test Result
Here are some key points about interpreting the results of the Mantoux test.
- The test results are interpreted based on the size of the reaction, measured in millimeters of induration (swelling).
- A positive reaction typically means that a person has been exposed to the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB). However, it does not necessarily mean that the person has active TB disease.
- The interpretation of a positive Mantoux test result depends on the individual's risk factors for TB, such as age, medical history, and exposure to TB.
Mantoux Test Report
Mantoux Test Report PDF
Mantoux Test Postive Report
Mantoux Positive Test Report PDF Format
Mantoux Test Positive Result Report PDF
Mantoux Test Negative Report
Mantoux Negative Test Report PDF Format
Mantoux Test Negative Result Report PDF
Mantoux Test Normal Range
- The Mantoux test has a normal range an induration size below 5 mm is considered as TB negative.
- Instead, the test result is interpreted based on the size of the reaction (induration) at the injection site.
Mantoux Test Interpretation
Here's an interpretation of Mantoux test results based on the size of the induration:
| Induration size |
Interpretation |
| < 5 mm |
A negative result, indicating no exposure to TB |
| 5-9 mm |
Usually considered positive for people who are immunocompromised or have other risk factors for TB |
| 10-14 mm |
Usually considered positive for people with medical risk factors for TB, recent immigrants from areas with high TB prevalence, or close contacts with people with TB |
| ≥ 15 mm |
Usually considered positive for people with no known risk factors for TB |
It's important to note that the interpretation of Mantoux test results can vary depending on an individual's risk factors and other factors that may affect the accuracy of the test, so the healthcare provider interpreting the results should take these factors into account.
Specimen Requirments For Mantoux Test
Here is No specimen requirement for Mantoux Test.
| Specimen |
- nil |
| Volume |
- nil |
| Container |
- nil |
Mantoux Test is Safe?
- The Mantoux test is generally considered safe and well-tolerated.
- The injection of tuberculin into the skin may cause a slight prick or burn, but this discomfort is usually mild and brief.
- Serious side effects from the Mantoux test are rare, although there is a small risk of infection at the injection site.
When Do You Get Mantoux Test Results?
Here are some key points about when to expect Mantoux test results.
- The Mantoux test results are typically read between 2 to 3 days after the test is administered.
- It is important to return to the healthcare provider's office within this timeframe to have the injection site checked for any reaction.
- If you do not return for the reading within the appropriate timeframe, the test may need to be repeated.
Mantoux Test Limitation
Here are some possible limitations of the Mantoux Test.
- False positive results can occur due to previous BCG vaccination.
- False negative results can occur in immunocompromised individuals.
- Interfering substances, such as recent live-virus vaccinations, can affect test results.
- Results can be subjective and interpretation may vary between healthcare providers.
- The Mantoux test cannot differentiate between active and latent tuberculosis infection.
Mantoux Test Risk Factors
Here is the potential risk factor of the Mantoux Test.
- False-positive results due to prior BCG vaccination.
- False-negative results in immunocompromised individuals.
- Risk of local skin reactions, such as redness and swelling.
- Allergic reactions to the tuberculin solution.
- Interference from recent live-virus vaccinations.
Doctor Recommendations After Mantoux Test Result
Here are Doctor recommendations or consult a specialist after Mantoux Test.
| Mantoux Test Result |
Doctor to Visit |
Reason to Visit |
| High |
Infectious Disease Specialist |
Suspected tuberculosis infection |
| Normal |
General Practitioner |
Routine follow-up and interpretation of results |
| Low |
General Practitioner |
Rule out active tuberculosis infection |
Mantoux Test Price
Here are the estimated Mantoux Test Price in India with different top cities:
*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.
Summary
Overall, The Mantoux test is a safe and effective diagnostic tool for detecting exposure to the tuberculosis bacteria. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.
Reference
- Mantoux test - Wikipedia [1].
- Mantoux test and its interpretation - PMC NIH [2].
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