Mantoux test

Mantoux test

The Mantoux test (pronounced: man-too test), also known as the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), is a diagnostic tool used to detect an infection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB). The test is named after Charles Mantoux, a French physician who developed the test in the early 20th century.

Etymology

The term "Mantoux" is derived from the name of Charles Mantoux, who introduced the test in 1908. The term "tuberculin" refers to the purified protein derivative (PPD) used in the test, which is obtained from the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium.

Procedure

The Mantoux test involves the intradermal injection of a small amount of PPD tuberculin into the skin of the forearm. The injection site is then observed 48 to 72 hours later to check for a reaction. A positive reaction, characterized by a hard, raised red bump, indicates a possible TB infection.

Interpretation

The interpretation of the Mantoux test depends on the size of the skin reaction, the patient's risk factors for TB, and their history of BCG vaccination. A larger reaction (greater than or equal to 15 mm) is generally considered positive in people with no risk factors for TB.

Limitations

The Mantoux test has several limitations. It cannot distinguish between latent TB infection and active TB disease. It may also give false-positive results in people who have been BCG-vaccinated or infected with non-tuberculous mycobacteria.

Related Terms

• Tuberculosis
• Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• BCG vaccination
• Latent tuberculosis
• Active tuberculosis

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Mantoux test
• Wikipedia's article - Mantoux test

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