Tuberculosis (TB) Testing OptionsHealth Service

TB Skin Test

Tuberculin skin tests (TST) are administered to detect the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB). The terms Mantoux, TB skin test, 2-step TB test, tuberculin skin test, and PPDs are often used interchangeably. Mantoux refers to the technique for administering the test. Tuberculin (also called purified protein derivative or PPD) is the solution used to administer the test. 

This test requires two visits to the clinic - one for placement of the test and one for reading the result. The result MUST be read 48-72 hours after placement.

The test is performed by injecting a small amount of tuberculin in the skin on the forearm. Some places require a “two-step” skin test which means having the test placed twice, usually 1-3 weeks apart from one another. 

Cost

This test is $25 for each test administered (there is no cost for the appointment when the test is read). *If the window for reading the test is missed, you will need to pay to have the test re-administered.

TB Blood Test

Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs) are whole-blood tests that can aid in diagnosing Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. The Gustavus Health Service uses the QuantiFERON-TB Gold (QFT) and sends this to Quest Diagnostics.

A nurse will draw the patient’s blood and send it to the laboratory for analysis and results. Only one visit is required and results are typically available within 1-4 days.

TB blood tests are the preferred test for:

  • People who have received the TB vaccine Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG)
  • People who have had a positive reaction to tuberculin in the past
  • People who have a difficult time returning for a second appointment to have the TST read

Cost

The test is $140 when billed to insurance. Some insurances may cover the cost. You can call your insurance to ask about coverage - the CPT code is 86480 and the diagnosis code is Z11.1.

Results

To find results of your TB skin test or blood test please sign onto the Gustavus Health Portal. 

If you are on a smart phone you will need to click the 3 bars to the right of Gustavus Adolphus College. 

If you received a TB skin test:
  • Click ‘My Profile’
  • Choose ‘Immunization History’
  • A copy of your immunization record will be downloaded for you
If you received a TB blood test:
  • Click ‘My Profile’
  • Click on Result Date of test 
  • A copy of your lab record will be downloaded for you 

With your downloaded information you can save it to your device or print a copy.