Mantoux Test in Chennai
At Unittas Hospital, receive a trustworthy Mantoux test in Chennai with expert administration and accurate reading. The Mantoux test (also referred to as mantoux blood test in some contexts, though it is a skin test) detects exposure to tuberculosis (TB) bacteria by checking the body's immune response to tuberculin on the skin.
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What is a Mantoux Test?
The Mantoux test, or tuberculin skin test (TST), involves injecting a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) from TB bacteria under the skin of the forearm. It measures delayed hypersensitivity to determine if a person has been infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which causes TB. It identifies latent TB infection but does not confirm active disease.
Why is the Mantoux Test Performed?
- Doctors recommend the test to:
- Screen for latent TB in high-risk groups
- Assess individuals exposed to someone with active TB
- Evaluate healthcare workers, immigrants from high-prevalence areas, or those with weakened immunity
- Investigate symptoms suggestive of TB or before starting immunosuppressive treatments
- Support diagnosis in children, close contacts, or people in congregate settings
How is the Mantoux Test Performed?
The inner forearm is cleaned with alcohol
A tiny amount (0.1 ml, usually 5 TU PPD) is injected intradermally, creating a small pale bump (wheal) 6 to 10 mm wide
The site is not bandaged
Return in 48 to 72 hours for reading: a trained professional measures the raised, hardened area (induration) in millimetres across the forearm (not redness)
Avoid scratching, rubbing, or applying creams to the site.
Preparation for the Mantoux Test
- Inform your doctor about recent vaccinations (live vaccines within the past month), previous TB tests or treatment, viral illnesses, immunosuppressive drugs, or HIV status
- No fasting is required
- Wear loose sleeves for easy access to the forearm
Risks and Side Effects
The test is generally safe. Possible effects include:
- Mild itching, redness, or swelling at the site
- Rare fever or blistering
- Very uncommon allergic reactions
- These usually resolve without treatment.
Mantoux Test Normal Range and Interpretation of Results
- Results depend on induration size (in mm) and individual risk factors. Measure only the firm raised area, not surrounding redness.
- Mantoux test normal range (negative in low-risk individuals): 0 to 4 mm induration.
- Interpretation guidelines (commonly used, may vary by guidelines and risk):
- Mantoux test positive means prior exposure to TB bacteria (latent infection likely), requiring further evaluation (e.g., chest X-ray, sputum tests) to rule out active disease.
Mantoux test negative means no significant immune response to tuberculin, suggesting no TB infection (or very recent infection without time to react in severely immunocompromised).
BCG vaccination history does not usually alter interpretation; positive results in vaccinated individuals are assessed by risk.
Always consult your doctor for personalised interpretation.
Why Choose Unittas Hospital?
Unittas Multispeciality Hospital is a NABH-accredited centre with branches in Tambaram and Kelambakkam, conveniently located for patients across Chennai and the OMR corridor. Our state-of-the-art in-house laboratory features advanced analysers for precise diagnostic testing, supported by experienced pathologists and specialists who deliver expert interpretation and personalised guidance.
We ensure quick, reliable turnaround, comfortable sample-collection areas, private spaces for result discussions, and seamless connections to specialist consultations, all in a single facility. With a strong emphasis on compassionate, patient-focused care, hygienic premises, and flexible timings, Unittas is a trusted choice for reliable diagnostics in Chennai.
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Mantoux test questions
It is read between 48 and 72 hours; reading outside this window may be unreliable.
Yes, gentle washing is fine, but avoid soaking, scrubbing, or applying lotions.
No, it usually indicates latent infection; additional tests determine if active disease is present.
Yes, interpretation uses the same risk-based criteria; BCG rarely causes large reactions years later.
A repeat test may be needed, as results beyond 72 hours (up to 96 in some cases) can be less accurate.
Corticosteroids or immunosuppressants may cause false negatives; discuss with your doctor.
Yes, it is considered safe and often recommended for at-risk pregnant women.
This may indicate strong sensitivity; keep clean and inform your doctor, but it is not dangerous.
Yes, it is commonly used in children, with adjusted interpretation for age and risk.
Not always; very recent infection, severe immunosuppression, or technical issues can lead to false negatives.
Usually after a few weeks to months; repeated testing too soon may cause boosting.
No special care; just avoid irritating the site and return for reading.
No, the injected material is not live bacteria and cannot cause infection.
Typically chest X-ray, symptom review, and possibly sputum analysis or IGRA for confirmation.
It is widely used and cost-effective; blood tests (IGRAs) may be preferred in some cases like BCG-vaccinated individuals.
Yes, travel to or from high-TB countries increases the risk category, influencing positive cut-off.
Repeat testing is usually not done; baseline positives guide future monitoring.
It can cause cross-reactions, but larger indurations are more specific to M. tuberculosis.
All diagnostic tests at Unittas
Visit our Chennai labs
Both branches run the same NABH grade lab. Walk in during clinic hours, or call us to book your visit.
Tambaram
7, Duraiswamy Reddy Street, West Tambaram, Chennai 600045
Mon to Sat, 8 am to 8 pm. Sun, 9 am to 1 pm.
OMR Kelambakkam
141/1, Kazhipattur Village, OMR Main Rd, Kelambakkam 603103
Mon to Sat, 8 am to 8 pm. Sun, 9 am to 1 pm.
Screen for TB with a simple skin test.
A quick forearm injection today, a two minute reading in 48 to 72 hours, and clear answers about TB exposure.
Book: Mantoux Test
A quick skin test, read in 48 to 72 hours. Our care team calls you back shortly.
Thank you. Our care team will call you back shortly to confirm your Mantoux test slot.