PPD test with reading, pulmonology, lung treatment, sleep disorders

The PPD (purified protein derivative) test, also known as the tuberculin test, is a diagnostic test used to detect the presence of tuberculosis, an infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This test is an important tool in medicine, as it enables early detection of latent or active tuberculosis infection, which is crucial for timely treatment and prevention of the spread of the disease. The PPD test is based on injecting a small amount of tuberculin antigen under the skin, usually in the forearm, and the skin reaction is read after 48 to 72 hours.

The PPD test is performed by injecting a small amount of tuberculin antigen under the skin on the inside of the forearm. After the injection, the patient returns to the doctor to read the results after 48 to 72 hours. During this period, a small reaction in the form of redness or swelling may develop at the injection site, which is measured to determine the test result.

This reaction indicates that the immune system has recognized the tuberculin antigen, which means that the person has been in contact with the tuberculosis bacteria. A positive result does not necessarily mean that a person has active tuberculosis, but rather that their immune system has come into contact with the bacteria, which may indicate a latent infection. The PPD test is crucial in the early detection of latent tuberculosis, especially in people who are at increased risk, such as healthcare workers or people who have been in contact with infected people. Early detection is essential to prevent the development of active disease and the spread of infection to other people.

The PPD test is a quick and simple procedure that takes only a few minutes. Just injecting the tuberculin antigen under the skin takes a few seconds. However, the patient must return to the doctor after 48 to 72 hours to examine the injection site and read the result. During this time, the patient does not feel any specific symptoms, except for a possible mild reaction at the injection site. So, although the injection takes a short time, the complete process requires coming for control after two to three days.