Mantoux test
The Mantoux test is a widely utilized diagnostic tool for detecting infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis (TB). It measures the body's immune response to a derivative of the bacterium, rather than the bacterium itself[1].
Procedure[edit]
The test is administered by injecting a small amount of tuberculin purified protein derivative (PPD) into the dermis layer of the skin, usually on the inner forearm. The injection site is observed after 48-72 hours to determine the body's reaction to the tuberculin[2].
Interpretation[edit]
The key feature of the Mantoux test is the size of the induration (a hard, raised area), not the redness, at the injection site after 48-72 hours. The diameter of the induration is measured in millimeters. The interpretation of the test depends on the size of the induration and the patient's risk factors for tuberculosis[3].
Limitations and False Results[edit]
The test does not differentiate between latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and active tuberculosis disease. It also does not distinguish between infection acquired recently and that acquired in the past. False-negative results may occur in individuals with impaired immune systems, while false-positive results can occur in those vaccinated with the BCG vaccine or infected with non-tuberculous mycobacteria[4].
Follow-up Testing[edit]
A positive Mantoux test indicates exposure to M. tuberculosis and warrants further investigation, such as a chest X-ray or sputum culture, to differentiate between latent infection and active disease.
See Also[edit]
References[edit]
- ↑ Stewart, RJ."Mantoux test and its interpretation".Indian Dermatol Online J.2011;2(1)
- 2–6.doi:10.4103/2229-5178.79850.PMID:22345773.
- ↑ Menzies, D."Interpretation of repeated tuberculin tests. Boosting, conversion, and reversion".American journal of respiratory and critical care medicine.1999;159(1)
- 15–21.doi:10.1164/ajrccm.159.1.9804054.PMID:9872819.
- ↑ Guidelines for the investigation of contacts of persons with infectious tuberculosis(link). {{{website}}}. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- ↑ Farhat, M."False-positive tuberculin skin tests: what is the absolute effect of BCG and non-tuberculous mycobacteria?".The international journal of tuberculosis and lung disease.2006;10(11)
- 1192–1204.PMID:17131765.
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