TB Skin Testing

uberculosis (TB) is a chronic infectious disease caused by M. tuberculosis. It is transmitted through inhalation of contaminated droplets from an infected individual. All individuals should be tested at some point in their early adult lives, but it is especially important in those who have a chronic illness, have resided in underdeveloped countries, or who work in health care occupations.

TB skin testing is performed by Mantoux method, injecting a minute amount of purified protein derivative into the skin of the inner forearm.  The site of injection is then evaluated for a reaction in 48-72 hours. A positive reaction identifies individuals who have been infected at some time with tuberculosis, but does not differentiate between current disease and past infection. It is estimated that only 5-10% of normal individuals who are infected with TB develop clinical illness. The other 90-95% will have a positive skin test but never develop illness.

A negative reaction does not rule out the diagnosis of tuberculosis as false-negative and false-positive reactions can occur.

Currently enrolled students, or those who have been accepted for enrollment into a nursing or allied health program, may receive the TB test at the Student Health Center. The charge is $5.00 billed to the student's account. Schedule for testing is detailed below:

·         Students who do not return for reading at the required time must return after 2 weeks to be retested and will also be charged for the second test.