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The tuberculin antigen is injected under the skin to determine if you have ever been exposed to tuberculosis. Also see ppd skin test (mantoux test). The ppd test is a more accurate test than the tine test and is considered the current state of the art test to determine if someone has been exposed to tuberculosis.

How the Test is Performed

The tuberculosis antigen is injected just under the skin with a multiple-pronged instrument. The antigen is located on the tines (spikes) that penetrate the skin. The site is labeled, usually with an ink pen, and it is usually done on the arm.

After 48 to 72 hours, if the test is positive, the skin will appear red and swollen like a mosquito bite where the antigen was injected. A negative test may be a bit red but will not be swollen and firm like a mosquito bite.

How to Prepare for the Test

There is no special preparation. People with dermatitis or other skin irritations may have the test performed at different locations on the body.

How the Test will Feel

When the antigen is injected, there is a slight stinging sensation where the tines are inserted. After the reaction begins, the area may itch or burn.

Why the Test is Performed

This test is very helpful in determining if you have ever been exposed to tuberculosis. If you have been exposed to tuberculosis at any time in the past, antibodies are formed by your body and remain in your system; when the tuberculosis antigen is injected under the skin during the tine test, your body will have an immune response, and there will be an area of inflammation at the site of the injection.

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