Tuberculin


the tuberculin skin test

The skin test for tuberculosis is required in St. Kitts for work permit applications, residency applications and visa extensions. 
Some countries and educational institutions require this test as a pre-requisite for migration, employment or enrollment.

At MERIDIAN MEDICAL CONSULTANTS, we can do this test in a safe, comfortable environment and we will answer any questions you may have.
Call or email us today.

Here is some information about what is done and what to expect.
THE TUBERCULIN SKIN TEST

A tuberculin skin test is done to find out if you have ever had tuberculosis (TB) (Mycobacterium tuberculosis). It is also known as a Mantoux skin test or a purified protein derivative (PPD) test.
People at High Risk for getting TB include:

  • people who have had a recent organ transplant or with impaired immune systems, such as those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
  • those who have had close recent contact with a person who has an active TB infection,
  • those who have symptoms or a chest X-ray that shows TB.

People at Moderate Risk for getting TB include:

  • people who have recently moved from or traveled in a country with a high rate of TB
  • people  who use illegal drugs by injection (intravenous drug users)
  • people who live in nursing homes
  • workers in hospitals, nursing homes, schools and prisons;
  • children younger than 4 years old
  • children (ages 4 to 18) who are exposed to high-risk adults
  • the homeless
  • people who are 10% or more below their ideal body weight
  • people with kidney failure, diabetes, leukemia, cancer or those who have had part of their stomach removed (gastrectomy)

    People at Low Risk for getting TB include:

    • people who do not have any possible exposure to TB listed in the other risk groups.

    How It Is Done
    The tuberculin skin test is done by injecting a small, measured amount of TB protein – not the actual germ – under the top layer of skin on your inner forearm.
    You sit down and turn the inner side of your forearm up. The skin where the test is done is cleaned and allowed to dry. A small shot of the TB antigen (purified protein derivative or PPD) is put under the top layer of skin. You may feel a quick sting from the medicine.
    The fluid makes a little bump (wheal) under the skin. 
    Do not cover the site with a bandage.
    If you have ever been exposed to the TB bacteria, your skin will react to the antigens by developing a firm red bump at the site within 2 days.



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