Tuberculin Skin Tests: Risks
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Risks
There is a very slight risk of having a severe reaction to the tuberculin skin test, especially if you have had tuberculosis (TB). An allergic reaction can cause a lot of swelling and pain at the site. A sore may be present.
You cannot get a TB infection from the tuberculin skin test, because no live bacteria are used for the test.
After the test
Some redness at the skin test site is expected. The site may itch, but it is important that you do not scratch it, since this may cause redness or swelling that could make it hard to read the skin test. If itching is a problem, put a cold washcloth on the site and then dry it.
A strong positive reaction may cause mild pain. Talk to your health professional if you have:
- A fever.
- Swelling in your arm.
- Swollen lymph nodes in your armpit.
| Last updated: | May 18, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine, Alfred A. Lardizabal, MD - Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine/Tuberculosis |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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