TB Skin Test

TB tests are available by appointment, call (608) 326-0229, cost is $25 for 1 step; $50 for 2 step. You must return 48 hours after injection to have skin test read by a licensed nurse.

What is TB?

TB stands for Tuberculosis Disease, which is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and it can be a serious condition if not treated properly. Symptoms can include coughing, chest pain, fatigue, weight loss, and chills/fever. 

What if I test positive?

If you test positive for a TB skin test, it means you have been infected with the bacteria that causes TB (some false positives can occur). However, a positive TB skin test does not necessarly mean you have active TB disease. In most cases, a positive TB skin test indicates latent TB infection, which means that the TB bacteria is present in your body but are inactive and not causing symptoms. It's important to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation, blood testing, and/or treatment, if needed. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics taken over several months.