What Is Ppd Tuberculin Skin Test?

The Mantoux test or Mendel–Mantoux test is a tool for screening for tuberculosis and for tuberculosis diagnosis. It is one of the major tuberculin skin tests used around the world, largely replacing multiple-puncture tests such as the tine test.

How does a PPD test work?

The test is done by putting a small amount of TB protein (antigens) under the top layer of skin on your inner forearm. If you have ever been exposed to the TB bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis), your skin will react to the antigens by developing a firm red bump at the site within 2 days.

Is tuberculin skin test the same as PPD?

The terms Mantoux, TB skin test, tuberculin skin test, and PPDs are often used interchangeably. Mantoux refers to the technique for administering the test. Tuberculin (also called purified protein derivative or PPD) is the solution used to administer the test.