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Tuberculosis (TB) is a communicable disease that mainly affects the lungs. It spreads through droplets released when a person with TB coughs, sneezes, or spits. A tuberculosis test is done to check for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes TB. Since tuberculosis can be prevented and treated, timely diagnosis with a TB test and other recommended screenings is important.
A tuberculosis test helps identify whether a person has been infected with the bacteria that causes TB. There are two common types of tuberculosis tests: the TB skin test and the TB blood test. These tests help identify TB infection, although additional tests may be needed to determine whether the infection is active or latent.
A healthcare professional may recommend a TB test in Bengaluru if tuberculosis is suspected, if a person has been exposed to someone with active TB, or if they have a higher risk of developing the disease.
A tuberculosis screening test checks for infection with the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. Common methods include the tuberculosis skin test (Mantoux test) and the tuberculosis blood test (Interferon-Gamma Release Assay or IGRA).
These tests can help determine whether a person has TB infection, but they cannot by themselves confirm whether the infection is active or latent. If the test result is positive, additional tests may be required to determine the appropriate treatment.
A doctor may recommend a tuberculosis test in Bengaluru if a person has symptoms of active TB or has a higher risk of exposure to TB bacteria.
A person may have a higher risk of exposure if they:
Live, work, or travel to places where TB is common.
Work in healthcare facilities, nursing homes, shelters, or other settings where TB may spread.
Have been exposed to someone with active TB.
Live or have previously lived in shared or crowded settings where TB is more common.
A TB test may also be recommended if a person has symptoms such as:
A cough lasting more than three weeks
Coughing up blood or sputum
Chest pain
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Unexplained weight loss
Night sweats
The risk of developing active TB may be higher in people with certain medical conditions or circumstances, including a weakened immune system, HIV infection, diabetes, cancer, certain kidney diseases, recent TB infection, organ transplantation, or certain treatments that suppress the immune system.
There are generally no special preparations required for a tuberculosis test in Bengaluru. However, the following points may be helpful:
Inform your healthcare provider: Tell your doctor if you have received the BCG vaccine or have any medical conditions.
Share your medication details: Inform your doctor about any medicines you are taking.
No fasting required: Fasting is generally not required for TB blood or skin tests.
Wear comfortable clothing: Wear clothing that allows easy access to the arm.
Follow-up for skin test: If you have a TB skin test, you will need to return after 48–72 hours for the test to be read.
The procedure depends on whether your doctor recommends a TB skin test or a TB blood test.
A healthcare professional cleans the inside of your forearm.
A small amount of tuberculin is injected under the skin.
The injection site may be marked for identification.
You will be asked to return after 48–72 hours.
The healthcare professional will check the reaction at the injection site.
A healthcare professional cleans the area on your arm.
A small needle is inserted into a vein.
A blood sample is collected in a tube.
The needle is removed and the area is covered with a bandage.
The sample is sent to the laboratory for testing.
The result depends on the type of TB test performed. These tests indicate whether a person has been infected with TB bacteria, but additional testing may be required to determine whether the infection is active or latent.
Tuberculin Skin Test
The skin test is checked 48–72 hours after the injection. The healthcare provider looks at the size and firmness of the swelling to determine whether the result is positive based on the person's risk factors.
IGRA Blood Test
A positive IGRA blood test indicates an immune response to TB bacteria and suggests TB infection. Additional tests, such as a chest X-ray or sputum test, may be recommended to determine whether the infection is active.
Tuberculin Skin Test
A negative result generally means there is no significant reaction at the injection site. However, the result may need to be interpreted along with symptoms and risk factors.
IGRA Blood Test
A negative IGRA result means that there is no significant immune response to TB bacteria detected by the test. However, if a person has symptoms or is at high risk, the doctor may recommend further testing.
Some people have a higher risk of developing tuberculosis, particularly those who have been exposed to TB or have conditions that weaken the immune system.
HIV Infection: HIV can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of TB.
Substance Use: Injected drug use can increase the risk of TB due to factors such as weakened immunity and increased exposure.
Silicosis: This lung condition can increase the risk of developing TB.
Diabetes: Diabetes can affect the immune system and make it harder to fight infections.
Severe Kidney Disease: People with chronic kidney disease or those undergoing dialysis may have a higher risk of TB.
Low Body Weight: Being underweight or malnourished can weaken the body's ability to fight infections.
Organ Transplants: Immunosuppressive medicines used after an organ transplant can increase the risk of TB.
Cancer: Certain cancers and their treatments can weaken the immune system.
Certain Medical Treatments: Long-term use of medicines that suppress the immune system may increase TB risk.
Biological Therapies: Certain treatments for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn's disease can increase the risk of TB.
People who have been exposed to someone with TB or are at higher risk may be advised to undergo TB screening in Bangaluru.
Some ways to reduce the risk include:
Get the BCG vaccination as recommended by a healthcare professional.
Take preventive treatment if latent TB infection is diagnosed and treatment is recommended.
Attend follow-up appointments as advised.
Follow medical advice regarding isolation if you have active TB.
Avoid close contact with others when advised by your doctor.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Wash your hands regularly.
Keep indoor spaces well ventilated.
People at higher risk should undergo screening as recommended.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid smoking.
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