The Mantoux test is a diagnostic tool for tuberculosis that uses purified protein derivative injected under the skin to determine if a person has been exposed to TB. The results are interpreted based on the size of induration, or raised hardening of the skin, which differs depending on risk factors such as being HIV-positive, recent contact with an active TB patient, or recent travel from a high prevalence country. A positive result indicates exposure to the TB bacterium.

1. The Mantoux test (also known as the Mantoux screening test, tuberculin sensitivity test, Pirquet test, or PPD test for purified
protein derivative) is a diagnostic tool for tuberculosis. It is one of the major tuberculin skin tests used around the world, largely
replacing multiple-puncture tests such as the Tine test. The Heaf test was used until 2005 in the UK, when it was replaced by
the Mantoux test. It is endorsed by the American Thoracic Society and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Classification of Tuberculin Reaction
The results of this test must be interpreted carefully. The person's medical risk factors determine at which increment (5 mm, 10
mm, or 15 mm) of induration the result is considered positive. A positive result indicates TB exposure.
5 mm or more is positive in
An HIV-positive person
Persons with recent contacts with a TB patient
Persons with nodular or fibrotic changes on chest X-ray consistent with old healed TB
Patients with organ transplants, and other immunosuppressed patients
10 mm or more is positive in
Recent arrivals (less than five years) from high-prevalence countries
Injection drug users
Residents and employees of high-risk congregate settings (e.g., prisons, nursing homes, hospitals, homeless shelters, etc.)
Mycobacteriology lab personnel
Persons with clinical conditions that place them at high risk (e.g., diabetes, prolonged corticosteroid therapy, leukemia, end-
stage renal disease, chronic malabsorption syndromes, low body weight, etc.)
Children less than four years of age, or children and adolescents exposed to adults in high-risk categories
15 mm or more is positive in
Persons with no known risk factors for Tb
SUMMARY
Ø This is used to determine if a person has been infected or has been exposed to the TB bacillus.
Ø This utilizes the PPD (Purified Protein Derivatives).
Ø The PPD is injected intradermally usually in the inner aspect of the lower forearm about 4 inches below the elbow.
Ø The test is read 48 to 72 hours after injection.
Ø (+) Mantoux Test is induration of 10 mm or more.
Ø But for HIV positive clients, induration of about 5 mm is considered positive
Ø Signifies exposure to Mycobacterium Tubercle bacilli