TB Testing: How Does it Work and When Should I Do It?

You never imagined that your trip to an exotic location might lead to a severe disease. However, tuberculosis (TB) is more common in some regions and can pose a real danger, especially to those with immune issues.

But vacations aren’t the only risk factor. Dr. Frank Lee, our North Tex MedCare Clinic & Urgent Care expert, explains what other circumstances raise your risk and why testing could save your life.

Tuberculosis 101

TB is a severe disease caused by either Mycobacterium tuberculosis or Mycobacterium bovis. When exposed to it, you can experience coughing, chest pain, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. As the bacteria spread, they can cause severe organ damage.

Not everyone experiences symptoms. Some may have the infection in an inactive state, meaning their immune system is strong enough to keep the bacteria from becoming active and spreading. 

Others have an active infection in which the bacteria spreads, causing symptoms and tissue damage. However, even an inactive infection can become dangerous, as it may become active later. Both inactive and active TB require treatment to keep you safe.

How TB testing works

TB testing detects whether you’ve been infected with the TB bacteria. Two main types of tests are available: skin tests and blood tests.

The skin test (Mantoux test) involves injecting a small amount of purified protein derived from the TB bacteria. After a couple of days, you return to the clinic to have the injection site examined.

The blood test measures your immune system's exposure to TB bacteria in the blood.

Who should consider TB testing?

We recommend TB testing for those with various risk factors, including:

• Traveling to certain parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America
• Spending time in shelters, hospitals, nursing homes, and prisons
• Having a compromised immune system
• Being in close contact with someone diagnosed with TB

Settings such as hospitals, shelters, nursing homes, and prisons are high-risk because they house people who are more likely to have a weakened immune system or pre-existing health conditions, often near one another.

Taking action

In the past, TB often led to severe illnesses, but now, with the advent of modern antibiotics, you won’t have to worry about life-threatening complications.

If you’re at risk or have concerns about TB exposure, call us to schedule an appointment at one of our offices in Allen, Addison, Fort Worth, and San Antonio, Texas. Walk-ins are welcome. 

We also have an app where you can tell us about your concerns before you arrive. This way, we have all the necessary information and can provide help as soon as possible.