Tuberculin skin test

Synonym(s)

Intracutaneous test according to Mendel-Mantoux; THT

Definition
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Type IV reaction (delayed reaction) mediated by T cells. Only limited use in BCG vaccination.

Implementation
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The WHO recommended Danish reference tuberculin PPD RT 23 (Pharmore GmbH) is used. The tuberculin injection is made on the flexor side of the forearm. 2 tuberculin units are injected in 0.1ml s.c.

Reading after 48 and 72 h.
positive: induration (palpable papule) > 0,5 cm

Note(s)
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Positive test occurs on average 8 weeks after infection with TB. A positive test indicates infection. False positive reactions are to be expected in GCG vaccinated patients. Also by cross reactions after infections by environmental mycobacteria.

A negative test makes infection by mycobacteria unlikely.