Tuberculin skin test

The Tuberculin skin test, also known as the Mantoux test, is a method to determine if someone has been exposed to tuberculosis (TB). A healthcare provider injects a small amount of a protein derived from the TB bacteria just under the skin of your forearm. After 48 to 72 hours, you return to have the area checked for a reaction, typically swelling or redness. A positive result suggests potential TB exposure, but further testing is needed to confirm active disease. This test is important for identifying people who may carry TB, even if they don't show symptoms.