What happens when you are tested for TB?

An IGRA uses a blood sample to look for an immune response linked with TB bacteria. A Mantoux test places a small amount of testing material into the skin; the reaction is assessed at a planned follow-up visit. Neither result, by itself, proves that active tuberculosis is present.

Your clinician combines the result with exposure history, symptoms, previous tests and immune status. A positive test can lead to a medical examination, sputum testing or a Chest X-Ray. A negative result can be less conclusive soon after exposure or when the immune system cannot respond normally.

Follow the service instructions carefully, especially the return date for a skin-test reading. Tell the clinician about a prior TB diagnosis, vaccination, recent exposure and medicines such as immune-suppressing treatment. Do not interpret an isolated result without the planned clinical discussion.

If further assessment is recommended, attend even when you feel well. Tuberculosis Screening can distinguish the need for additional evaluation, while treatment is chosen according to the full clinical picture.

Arrange prompt medical review for a continuing cough, coughing blood, fever, night sweats, chest pain, unusual tiredness or unexplained weight loss, particularly after close contact with someone with tuberculosis. Go to urgent care for severe breathing trouble, confusion, fainting or substantial bleeding when coughing.

Which test was used, and when will it be read or reported? Does my result require a Chest X-Ray or another investigation? Could a recent exposure, past test or medicine change how the result should be understood?