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    Tuberculin Skin Test

    Tuberculin Skin Test



    How It Is Done

    For a tuberculin skin test, 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. The fluid makes a little bump (wheal) under the skin. A circle may be drawn around the test area with a pen. See a picture of a person receiving a Reference Mantoux test Opens New Window Reference Click here to see an illustration. Opens New Window.

    Do not cover the site with a bandage. You must see your doctor 2 to 3 days after the test to have the skin test checked.




    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference April 15, 2011
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care Medicine, Medical Toxicology


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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