TB Skin Test: Why It's Important and What to Expect During the Procedure

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AHG is among the preferred facilities for TB skin tests and family medicine in Mississauga, Canada. Aboud Health Group (AHG) understands the importance of preventive measures in combating infectious diseases like TB and conducts TB skin tests in Mississauga Canada. Students, healthcare workers, and those in close contact with at-risk populations are urged to screen for TB if needed.

Aboud Health Group offers both Step 1 and Step 2 Tuberculosis skin tests.

Step 1: The Initial Baseline Test

The first step is the TB skin test. It establishes a baseline. A negative TB test result indicates no TB infection at the time of the test.

 

In case of a positive result, the candidate has to go for a chest X-ray to assess the active TB condition and further evaluation.

Step 2: Testing

Individuals who have never had a TB skin test have to go for a two-step TB skin test.
They may need to undergo testing at regular schedules considering ongoing exposure risks. People working as healthcare workers, teachers, and employees of long-term care facilities may have to go for Step 2 testing.

 

The two-step testing accurately detects TB infections which are unlikely to show up in a single test due to a weak immune system response.

What To Expect During The Procedure

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the TB skin test process:

Preparation
The healthcare provider cleans the forearm area and selects an appropriate site for the test.
Injection
The doctor injects a small amount of tuberculin-purified protein derivative (PPD) just below the top layer of the skin.
Waiting period
The patient must return to the healthcare provider within 48 to 72 hours after the injection for the test reading.
Reading
The healthcare provider examines the injection site for swelling or redness during the return visit.

Why is the Skin TB Test Required?

TB is an infectious disease. Canada emphasizes public health. The TB skin test in Canada helps to identify people affected by TB in the past or for people from countries with a high rate of TB who wish to live in Canada. It is a preventive step and has to be done when asked for.

Where can you go for a skin TB test?

Aboud Health, or a walk-in clinic, or a doctor’s office offers the TB skin test.

TB skin tests offer a straightforward yet effective way to detect latent TB infection. It allows for timely intervention and prevention of the disease’s progression. Hence, people who wish to stay in Canada may need to go for a TB skin test as a precautionary measure.


As one of the most comprehensive health groups in Canada, Aboud Health Group is synonymous with family medicine and STD testing in Mississauga. These medical services are extremely vital to ensure the good health and well-being of the Mississauga population.