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TB specialist visit (phthisiatrician)
TB specialist · tuberculosis doctor · TB clinic · TB check
The doctor checks whether you have tuberculosis and treats it. Often people are sent just for a check.
For changes on a chest X-ray, a positive TB skin test, contact with a TB patient, a long cough, or for certificates.
⏱ Duration: the visit usually takes 20 to 30 minutes; tests take from a few days to a couple of weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Images. Bring your chest X-ray or CT and TB test results, if you have them.
- Sputum. If a sputum test is ordered, it is collected in the morning before eating, in a special container. They will explain how.
- Mask. If you cough, wear a mask when you come.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Your referral
- Chest images
- TB test results
How it goes
- The doctor asks about your complaints and contacts
- Listens to your lungs
- Looks at your images and test results
- May order a CT, a sputum test or blood tests
- Explains the result
- If needed, prescribes treatment or follow-up
What you'll feel
- The visit does not hurt
- If a skin test is done, a quick injection in the forearm
Afterwards
- If you do not have TB, you get a written conclusion
- If treatment is prescribed, you take it for a long time without missing doses
- Your close contacts may need to be checked too
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Coughing up blood or severe shortness of breath: call your local emergency number
Common questions
If I was sent to a TB specialist, do I have TB?
No. Most often it is just a check to rule it out.
Can TB be cured?
Yes. The main thing is to take the medicines for the whole course without gaps.