Question 1

What is tuberculosis(TB)?

Accepted Answer

Tuberculosis is a lung infection caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. . This is an air-borne bacteria that can spread through the air and has high chances of infectivity. Once inside the lungs, our immune system contains the infection and fights it. In the majority of cases, tuberculosis bacteria will be in a dormant stage, with no visible signs or symptoms. As long as the immune system is active and it will contain the bacteria, no symptoms are evident. If neglected or in immunocompromised condition, latent tuberculosis can progress to an active stage, in which the disease with symptoms manifests itself. Bacteria begin to damage tissue in the active stage. Fever, cough, cough with blood, chest pain, shortness of breath, night sweats, unexpected and unexplained weight loss, and weariness are some of the symptoms. Tuberculosis primarily affects the lungs, but it can also affect the brain, spine, joints, kidneys, and other organs.

Question 2

Why is this Mantoux test performed?

Accepted Answer

If you are suspected of having tuberculosis, this test may be advised as a part of the initial assessment. This test may be conducted if you have a cough, fever, blood in your cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, night sweats, abrupt weight loss, exhaustion, or other signs and symptoms. This test may be advised if you have tuberculosis in other organs such as your kidneys, spine, brain, or joints. In some circumstances, such as if you’ve recently been diagnosed with HIV or another disease that impairs your immune system, this test may not be helpful. Also,, this test is suggested if you’re from a region where tuberculosis is common. This test is also used on a pregnant woman.

Question 3

What are the preparations for the Mantoux test?

Accepted Answer

Before your Mantoux Test, tell your doctor if you’re taking any medications, have any allergies, any recent vaccinations or have any underlying medical concerns. Depending on your situation, your doctor will provide you with precise advice on how to prepare for the Mantoux Test. The Mantoux test as such does not require any special preparation.

Question 4

Can we conduct a Mantoux test at home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, A certified professional will perform the test from your preferred location when you book the tests through MFine, you can then download the results from the MFine app.

Question 5

What is the Mantoux test normal readings?

Accepted Answer

The reference range may differ depending on your gender, age, medical history, and current Immune status, among other factors.
 
If your test results are positive, you may have been infected with tuberculosis at some point in the past. A positive result does not necessarily mean that the infection is active. If your test results are negative, it’s possible that the infection isn’t present.
If you receive unexpected test results, see your doctor right away. Depending on the findings of your examinations, your doctor may suggest more tests.

Gender
Age groups
Value

UNISEX
All age groups
An induration of 5mm or more is considered positive in person with risk factors.  And an induration of more than 15 mm is considered positive in a person with no known risk factors for TB.

Question 6

What happens once I get my Mantoux test results?

Accepted Answer

If your Mantoux results are positive, your doctor will order blood tests or a chest X-ray. There could also be tests done on your sputum to see if you have an active infection. Finally, if the doctor believes the infection is spreading, urine or other tissue samples can be taken for testing.

Question 7

What if you scratch your tuberculosis test?

Accepted Answer

Although the skin may itch, do not scratch it because this could create redness or swelling, making it more difficult to read the skin test. If itching is an issue, apply a cold washcloth to the affected region and dry it. A strongly positive reaction can result in some irritation which usually subsides on its own.

Before test	During test
It is not mandatory to fast for 8-10 hours before the test.	There might be slight pain and redness on the forearm where the liquid is injected into the skin. However, these symptoms will go away quickly.

Mantoux Test

Table of contents

Request a Call Back

What is the Mantoux test used For?

Mantoux test procedure?

How to prepare for the Mantoux test?

Things to do after the Mantoux test?

How long does it take to get the Mantoux test results?

Is the Mantoux test a definitive test?

Where to get the Mantoux test done?

For further assistance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tuberculosis(TB)?

Why is this Mantoux test performed?

What are the preparations for the Mantoux test?

Can we conduct a Mantoux test at home?

What is the Mantoux test normal readings?

What happens once I get my Mantoux test results?

What if you scratch your tuberculosis test?

References

Related Tests

Popular Health Packages

Related Blogs

Gender	Age groups	Value
UNISEX	All age groups	An induration of 5mm or more is considered positive in person with risk factors. And an induration of more than 15 mm is considered positive in a person with no known risk factors for TB.