tuberculosis tests

Tuberculosis (TB) tests identify if someone has been infected with the TB bacteria. The common tests are the skin test (TB Mantoux), where a small amount of fluid is injected under the skin and checked after 48-72 hours for a reaction, and blood tests (interferon-gamma release assays) that measure the immune response to TB bacteria. Skin tests indicate prior exposure, but additional tests are needed to determine if the infection is active. TB tests are essential for early detection, especially for high-risk populations, enabling timely treatment and preventing spread.