What does tuberculosis screening treat?

Screening may use a skin test such as Mantoux or a blood test such as an IGRA. A positive result suggests TB infection but does not by itself show whether infection is latent or active. Further assessment can include questions about symptoms and exposure, a physical examination, and imaging such as a chest X-ray. Latent Tuberculosis Infection has no active symptoms but can need preventive medicine. Active Tuberculosis can affect the lungs or other organs and requires a treatment plan.

Attend the follow-up appointment even if you feel well after a positive screen. Tell the clinician about previous TB tests, exposure, travel or residence in areas where TB is common, immune-system conditions, pregnancy, and medicines. If symptoms or the initial result suggest active disease, follow instructions for further testing and reduce close contact until advised. A negative screen does not always exclude recent infection or active illness when symptoms are present.

Arrange prompt assessment for a cough lasting several weeks, coughing blood, unexplained fever, night sweats, weight loss, chest pain, or marked tiredness, especially after TB exposure. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, coughing a large amount of blood, confusion, or collapse. Screening is not a substitute for assessment when symptoms are concerning.

Ask which test you are having, when results will be available, and what a positive or negative result means in your situation. Clarify whether you need a chest X-ray, treatment for latent infection, tests for active TB, or precautions around household contacts.