Question 1

How do I prepare for a Mantoux test/Tuberculin/PPD?

Accepted Answer

The Mantoux test (also known as the tuberculin test or PPD) is an intradermal injection of proteins to check for previous exposure to tuberculosis.

Question 2

What do I need to know before a Mantoux test/Tuberculin/PPD?

Accepted Answer

• **Definition:** The Mantoux test is an intradermal injection of proteins to check for previous exposure to tuberculosis.
• **Fasting:** No fasting is necessary for this test. You can eat solid food and drink liquids, including water, with total normality before the procedure.
• **Medication:** Certain drugs that suppress the immune system, such as corticosteroids, can affect the skin reaction and alter the results. Nonetheless, the decision to stop, maintain, or adjust your usual medication must always be discussed with your doctor.
• **Clothing and Accessories:** We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, preferably short sleeves or with sleeves that can be easily rolled up, as the test is performed on the inner side of the forearm. There is no restriction on the use of jewelry, piercings, watches, or metal objects.
• **Specific Requirements:** The most important requirement is that you must return to the health center between 48 and 72 hours after the injection for a health professional to evaluate the reaction on your skin. During that waiting time, it is essential that you do not scratch, rub, apply creams, or cover the area with band-aids or bandages. It is not necessary to arrive with a full bladder or come accompanied.
• **Expected discomfort or pain from the test:** You will feel a slight prick and a slight sting while the liquid is introduced under the skin, forming a small bump similar to a mosquito bite. In the days following the injection, it is completely normal for the area to turn red, swell a bit, or cause itching, but remember that you must not scratch.

Question 3

What do I have to do before a Mantoux test/Tuberculin/PPD?

Accepted Answer

• **Definition:** The Mantoux test is an intradermal injection of proteins to check for previous exposure to tuberculosis.
• **Fasting:** No fasting is necessary for this test. You can eat solid food and drink liquids, including water, with total normality before the procedure.
• **Medication:** Certain drugs that suppress the immune system, such as corticosteroids, can affect the skin reaction and alter the results. Nonetheless, the decision to stop, maintain, or adjust your usual medication must always be discussed with your doctor.
• **Clothing and Accessories:** We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, preferably short sleeves or with sleeves that can be easily rolled up, as the test is performed on the inner side of the forearm. There is no restriction on the use of jewelry, piercings, watches, or metal objects.
• **Specific Requirements:** The most important requirement is that you must return to the health center between 48 and 72 hours after the injection for a health professional to evaluate the reaction on your skin. During that waiting time, it is essential that you do not scratch, rub, apply creams, or cover the area with band-aids or bandages. It is not necessary to arrive with a full bladder or come accompanied.
• **Expected discomfort or pain from the test:** You will feel a slight prick and a slight sting while the liquid is introduced under the skin, forming a small bump similar to a mosquito bite. In the days following the injection, it is completely normal for the area to turn red, swell a bit, or cause itching, but remember that you must not scratch.

General instructions for Mantoux test/Tuberculin/PPD

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