Mantoux test
Section: LEARNING TO TEACH
Authors
Sandra García Fuente, Ana Jiménez Gil, Marco Antonio Zapata Sampedro
Position
Enfermeros. Centro de salud Polígono Norte. Distrito Sanitario de Atención Primaria, Sevilla.
Contact address
Sandra García Fuente. C/ Cruz de Alcalá, 6. 41309 La Rinconada, Sevilla.
Contact email: sandragf_1980@hotmail.com
Abstract
Purified Protein Derivate (PPD) is an antigen used to help diagnose tuberculosis infection.
The extract is injected into the most superficial layer of the skin, with a positive result being the appearance of a blister on the skin.
The test must be read between 48 and 72 hours after administration and is measured in millimetres through the transverse diameter of the induration. This will determine those patients that have presented a local significant reaction to the test.
Non-induration must be recorded as “0 mm”. Erythema should not be measured.
The medical risk factors of the individual will determine how many centimetres are necessary to consider the test as positive (5, 10 or 15 mm).
Nonetheless, the limitations of the test include the occurrence of false negative and false positive reactions. In summary, a positive test does not necessarily mean that there is active tuberculosis. Further studies are necessary to verify if we are dealing with an active disease.
Keywords:
induration; tuberculosis infection; Mantoux; PPDlocal reaction
Versión en Español
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