Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026

Diagnosing Pulmonary Tuberculosis with the Xpert MTB/RIF Test
Published on: April 9, 2012
Screening for tuberculosis in the primary care setting
1Physiological Nursing, Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Program, University of California, San Francisco, School of Nursing 94143-0610, USA.
Abstract:
Screening for tuberculous infection and active disease is an important part of primary care practice across the lifespan. It is estimated that between 10 and 15 million people living in the United States are infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Specific ethnic groups and persons with medical comorbidities are at an increased risk for progressing to active disease. The Mantoux method using 5TU purified protein derivative (PPD) antigen solution is the recommended skin testing technique for all age groups and settings. Companion anergy testing is no longer widely recommended. Interpretation of the tuberculin skin test reaction is also specific to age, lifestyle, and medical or environmental risk factors. Evaluation of risk of tubeculosis in the refugee or immigrant population requires careful evaluation of risk factors and interpretation of screening tests.
Related Concept Videos
Primary Healthcare Services
In 1978, international leaders convened in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan, for what would be a pivotal event in global health. The Alma-Ata Declaration was the first to call...
Preventive Healthcare Services
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
Pulmonary Tuberculosis IV
Several diagnostic approaches are used to detect TB. The conventional method is the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), also known as the Mantoux test. However, this method has...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the progression...

