Tuberculosis Testing in Tampa, FL

Tuberculosis Testing Tampa FL

Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can also enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. The bacteria that cause TB (mycobacterium tuberculosis) are spread when tiny droplets are released into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and the droplets are then inhaled by an uninfected person.

Until the mid-1980s, TB was relatively uncommon in the United States, but it is now making a comeback. Many health experts partly attribute the rise in TB infection rates to the emergence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which interferes with the body’s ability to fight off infections.

Who Should Receive Tuberculosis Testing?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends tuberculosis testing for anyone who is at heightened risk for contracting TB, such as people who:

  • Have had close contact with an infected person
  • Have an HIV infection or are otherwise immunocompromised
  • Have TB symptoms, such as fever, night sweats, coughing, and unexplained weight loss
  • Live or work in an area where TB is common, such as a nursing home, homeless shelter, prison, or jail
  • Use illegal drugs

Tuberculin Skin Testing

The Mantoux tuberculin skin test (TST) is commonly used to diagnose TB. Using a thin needle, a health care provider will inject a small amount of tuberculin purified protein derivative (PPD) fluid into the skin on the forearm. Immediately afterward, a small, pale bump will form at the injection site. The patient is then asked to return in a few days to be checked for a skin reaction. Specifically, a provider will look for swelling or a hard, raised area at the injection site.

A positive TST result indicates a mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Further testing will then be used to determine whether the infection is latent or active. A latent TB infection is not contagious and does not cause symptoms; however, if left untreated, it can progress into an active TB infection.

Getting a TB test in Tampa, FL, is convenient when you turn to the expert medical staff at South Tampa Immediate Care. You never need an appointment to visit our walk-in clinic for tuberculosis testing or any other reason. You can also check in online and enter our virtual waiting room before you leave your home or office.