TB skin test (Mantoux and Diaskintest)
TB skin test · Mantoux test · tuberculin skin test · PPD test · Diaskintest
A drop of a special substance is injected into the skin of your forearm. After 3 days, the doctor checks for redness or a raised bump and measures it. Diaskintest is a similar skin test used in some countries.
To check for tuberculosis in children and adults: yearly at schools and kindergartens, after contact with someone with TB, or for medical certificates.
⏱ Duration: the injection takes 1 minute; the check is usually after 72 hours
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Prep. No special prep. You can eat as usual.
- Health. The test is done when you are well. With a cold, it is usually postponed. Ask your doctor.
- Clothing. Wear a sleeve that is easy to pull up to the elbow.
What to bring
- Your referral, if you have one
- Your ID
- Your child's vaccination record
How it goes
- You sit and rest your forearm on a table
- The skin is wiped
- A thin needle puts a drop just under the top layer of skin
- A small bubble forms on the skin
- You are given a day to come back and show your arm
What you'll feel
- A quick, small prick
- You can tell a child ahead of time: it will be quick and pinch a little
Afterwards
- Until the check, do not wet or scratch the spot, and do not cover it with a bandage or put cream on it
- After 72 hours, the doctor measures the reaction with a ruler
- You get the result right at the check
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Strong swelling of the arm, blisters, or red streaks from the spot: see a doctor before the check day
Common questions
Can the test spot get wet?
Better not. Do not rub it, scrub it, or soak it until the check. A few drops of water are usually fine.
How is Diaskintest different from Mantoux?
Diaskintest does not react to the BCG vaccine, so it shows TB infection more precisely.