Understanding the Functions of Mantoux Tests and Procedures Performed

Mantoux test or tuberculin skin test (TST) is an examination carried out to determine the presence of TB germs on the body. For those of you who have relatives, friends or often make direct contact with TB sufferers, it is recommended to do the Mantoux test to detect as early as possible if infected. Tuberculosis (TB) is a lung disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis which can be transmitted. Transmission of TB disease can be through the air, for example when TB sufferers cough, so that bacteria spread into the air through bursts of saliva and inhaled by people around the sufferer. Not only in adults, TB can also affect children.

Mantoux Test Procedure

This test is done by injecting a small amount of a fluid called PPD tuberculin, into the skin of the arm. After the injection, usually a small lump will form on the surface of the skin. The doctor will give an initial marking around the lump using a marker, so that it can be known if there is a change in the size of the lump later. 48-72 hours after the Mantoux test is done, the doctor will re-examine the lumps formed to see any changes. If an enlargement does not appear on the lump, it can be concluded that the Mantoux test results are negative, or the patient is not exposed to TB germs. Meanwhile, the test results showed an increase in the size of the lump as much as 5-9 mm and visible inflammation, the Mantoux test was said to be positive, ie the patient was or had been exposed to TB germs. The results of this test require further examination to confirm the presence of TB infection.

Things That Can Affect Mantoux Test Results

Although it can be a reference to find out whether or not there are TB germs in the body, the results of the Mantoux test could be wrong in certain conditions. This is known as false negative and false positive test results. On the results of false negative tests, the Mantoux test will show negative results even though the patient is actually infected with TB germs. Errors in the results of these tests can be caused by a variety of things, including:
  • The body's inability to react to the skin test due to a weak immune system.
  • New TB infections occur between 8-10 months.
  • Long-term (years) TB germ infection.
  • New vaccine that contains live viruses, such as measles or smallpox.
  • Infected with diseases caused by viruses, such as measles or chicken pox.
  • Suffer from certain diseases, such as cancer or AIDS, which cause a weak immune system.
  • Incorrect injection technique.
  • Incorrect interpretation of reactions that arise.
While false positive test results occur when the Mantoux test shows positive results, while the patient is actually not exposed to TB germs. Errors in these test results can be caused by:
  • Identified the presence of the bacterium Mycobacterium, but not a type of tuberculosis.
  • New BCG immunization.
  • Incorrect injection technique.
  • Incorrect interpretation of reactions that arise.
  • Incorrect use of antigen bottles.
Although the Mantoux test can be a benchmark for TB germs in the body, it does not mean that the positive Mantoux test results indicate that the patient has active TB. To be sure, the doctor can recommend further tests such as chest X-ray and sputum examination, to ensure the presence of TB infection in the body.

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