Understanding Tuberculosis (TB) Screening

Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other organs. Symptoms may include persistent coughing, chest pain, and coughing up blood, along with systemic symptoms like weight loss and fever.
Screening for TB is crucial, particularly for those in close contact with at-risk populations, such as students and healthcare workers. Our clinic adheres to the stringent screening protocols advocated by reliable Canadian infectious disease guidelines.

The TB Skin Testing Process: Quick and Painless

The TB skin test, also known as the Mantoux tuberculin skin test, is performed by injecting a small amount of tuberculin into the skin. Our skilled healthcare professionals ensure a virtually painless experience, with results interpreted within 48 to 72 hours. At AHG, we offer same-day appointments to accommodate your schedule

OHIP and Non-OHIP Visits: We've Got You Covered

For students requiring a TB skin test, the cost is often covered by OHIP. Just bring your health card to your appointment. For employment or other purposes, patients are responsible for the service fee. Regardless of the reason for testing, AHG is dedicated to providing accessible services without compromising quality.

Comprehensive TB Skin Testing: Step 1 and Step 2 Procedures

At Aboud Health Group, we offer both Step 1 and Step 2 Tuberculosis skin testing to meet the diverse needs of our community and fulfill the requirements of various institutions and workplaces.

When is Step 2 Testing Required?

A two-step TB skin test may be necessary for individuals who have not had a TB skin test in over a year and are now required to have periodic testing due to ongoing exposure risks. This could include healthcare workers, teachers, and employees of long-term care facilities. The two-step testing ensures improved accuracy in detecting TB infections that may not show up in a single test due to a weakened immune system response.

Step 1: The Initial Baseline Test

The first step is the initial TB skin test, which is conducted to establish a baseline. If the test result is negative, it indicates that there has been no TB infection at the time of the test. However, if the result is positive, further evaluation and possibly a chest X-ray will be necessary to assess for active TB disease.

Step 2: The Confirmatory Test

If the initial test is negative, a second test is performed 1 to 3 weeks later. This step is crucial to identify individuals with a boosted reaction due to a previous TB infection or BCG vaccination. If the second test is positive, it may indicate a latent TB infection, and appropriate steps will be taken as per Canadian healthcare guidelines.

Annual TB Testing

For those with a history of negative TB tests, an annual Step 1 test is typically sufficient unless there is a change in exposure risk or a known exposure event.

At AHG, we navigate these protocols with precision, ensuring that whether you require a Step 1 or Step 2 test, or subsequent annual screenings, your testing is conducted in accordance with the most reliable Canadian infectious disease guidelines.

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TB Skin Test