Tuberculosis, abbreviated TB, is a serious, contagious bacterial infection that most commonly affects the lungs. People with this infection may not develop detectable symptoms but can still pass this infection to other people. A TB test, also called a PPD or Mantoux skin test, is used to determine whether a person has even been exposed to TB bacteria. Most people receive this test at least once during their lives, as this type of test is typically required for students entering school, people planning to travel to certain countries, or health care professionals. People should be aware of the potential side effects of a TB test prior to undergoing this type of test.
Flu-like Reaction
People who are hypersensitive to the material used during this test, called PPD or purified protein derivative, may experience a flu-like reaction following testing. Symptoms may include swollen underarm lymph glands or fever, according to the University of New Hampshire Health Services. Flu-like side effects of a TB test are temporary and typically resolve within a few days of testing.
Skin Rash or Ulcers
The TB test is administered as an injection of a small amount of PPD beneath the surface of the skin along the forearm. During and immediately following this skin test, people may experience sensations of pain at the tested skin site. People who experience a positive reaction to the TB test may experience redness, swelling, inflammation, sores, ulcers or itching at the tested skin site within 48 to 72 hours, MayoClinic.com reports. Scratching the affected arm should be avoided as doing so may exacerbate the skin reaction and increase a person's risk of developing a skin infection. These skin reactions may be uncomfortable but typically subside within two weeks of testing.
Scarring
A strong positive reaction to this test may lead to permanent scarring of the tested skin site, according to Drugs.com. Scarring of the skin may be embarrassing to certain people and can cause the skin to appear discolored or disfigured.
