Inspiring Insights on TB Skin Test Results

What does a positive TB skin test result indicate?

1. Presence of TB infection

2. Confirmation of active TB disease

Answer:

A positive TB skin test result indicates the presence of TB infection.

A positive TB skin test result can provide valuable insights into an individual's health status.

When a TB skin test reads as "positive," it signifies that the person has been exposed to the tuberculosis (TB) bacteria at some point in their life. This exposure triggers an immune response, leading to the development of a raised bump at the test site.

However, it's crucial to understand that a positive TB skin test does not confirm active TB disease. It simply suggests that the person has been infected with TB bacteria, indicating past exposure rather than current illness.

Further medical evaluation is necessary to determine if the infection is active or latent. Active TB disease is characterized by symptoms such as coughing, fever, weight loss, and chest pain, while latent TB infection typically shows no symptoms.

Additional tests, including chest X-rays and sputum cultures, may be required to diagnose active TB disease and initiate appropriate treatment if needed.