How is TB Detected?
If you think you have been exposed to TB, get a TB test. TB can be detected through a skin test or a TB blood test.
1. The skin test is done by injecting a small amount of fluid called tuberculin into the skin in the arm. You will be told to return within 48 to 72 hours to have a healthcare worker check the arm to see if a bump has developed. The healthcare worker will measure the bump and tell you if your reaction to the test is positive or negative. If it's positive, it usually means you have been infected with the TB germ.
2. The TB blood test measures how your immune system reacts to the germs that cause TB.
If you have a positive test for TB infection, it only means that you have been infected with TB germs. It does not tell whether you have developed TB disease. You will be given other tests, such as a chest x-ray and a check of your sputum (coughed up mucus), to see whether you have TB disease.
1. The skin test is done by injecting a small amount of fluid called tuberculin into the skin in the arm. You will be told to return within 48 to 72 hours to have a healthcare worker check the arm to see if a bump has developed. The healthcare worker will measure the bump and tell you if your reaction to the test is positive or negative. If it's positive, it usually means you have been infected with the TB germ.
2. The TB blood test measures how your immune system reacts to the germs that cause TB.
If you have a positive test for TB infection, it only means that you have been infected with TB germs. It does not tell whether you have developed TB disease. You will be given other tests, such as a chest x-ray and a check of your sputum (coughed up mucus), to see whether you have TB disease.