Certified Respiratory Therapist Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The tuberculin skin test, commonly known as the Mantoux test, is a widely used diagnostic tool for tuberculosis (TB). This test involves the intradermal injection of a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) and measuring the skin's reaction after 48 to 72 hours. A positive reaction indicates that the person has been exposed to the bacteria causing TB, suggesting possible infection.

This test is effective because it specifically assesses the immune response to the TB bacteria, making it a sensitive measure for detecting potential TB infection. It is particularly useful in screening individuals who may be at higher risk for developing TB or in populations where the disease is more prevalent.

While other tests, such as chest X-rays and microbiological examinations (including sputum tests), play important roles in the overall diagnosis and management of tuberculosis, they are not as specific for initial screening as the tuberculin skin test. Bronchoscopy is more invasive and generally used for further evaluation in cases where there is a suspicion of complicated pulmonary disease or malignancy. Therefore, the tuberculin skin test is the standard initial screening method for diagnosing tuberculosis.