It is important to speak to your doctor if you experience: You must return to your doctor's office (or the clinic where the test was done) 2 or 3 days after the test to have the result checked by your health care professional. What can I expect after the test?Īfter the test, do not cover the area with a bandage and do not scratch the test area, even if it is itchy (as this could interfere with the test). Do not use an anesthetic cream before the test as these creams can cause mild swelling, which may be interpreted as a positive test.Īsk your doctor or pharmacist whether you need to stop taking any of your medications before the test. Also tell them about any medication allergies and medical conditions that you may have. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. a measles vaccination within the last 6 weeks.major viral infection, such as mumps or measles (note that this does not include the common cold).Speak to your doctor if you have any of these conditions because they can interfere with the accuracy of the TB test: If you have had TB, a positive TB skin test, an adverse reaction to a prior TB test, or a TB vaccination in the past, it is important to tell your doctor. How should I prepare for this test?īefore having the TB skin test, be sure to mention whether you have had any symptoms that could be related to tuberculosis. It is normal to see a drop of blood at the injection site and this can be gently removed with a piece of gauze. Most people feel nothing or only very slight discomfort during this test. A technician may circle the area to make it clear where the proteins were injected. Then a small amount of the TB proteins (called antigens or purified protein derivative ) is injected under the skin. A trained health care professional disinfects the area on your inner forearm.