How are people tested for TB?
The most common TB test is called the Mantoux Skin Test. During this test a liquid is injected just under the skin on your arm. Two to three days later a health care provider will examine your arm to see if a bump has developed, and if so they will measure the size of the bump. The significance of the bump is determined in conjunction with the risk factors for the disease. If the health care professional has determined that the patient has TB infection he or she will need to determine whether or not the patient has the disease. Several other tests are then performed, including a chest X-ray and a sputum (mucus) test.
