Tuberculin PPD (often called the Mantoux Test) is a sterile extract derived from cultures of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It works through a Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity (DTH) mechanism: when a small amount is injected just under the skin, it triggers a localized immune response in individuals who have previously been exposed to the tuberculosis bacteria. If the body recognizes the proteins, specialized T-cells migrate to the injection site, causing a raised, hardened area (induration) within 48 to 72 hours.
In Nigeria, Tuberculin PPD (available as Tubersol or Aplisol) is a frontline diagnostic tool for screening high-risk individuals, healthcare workers, and those in close contact with active TB cases. It is available through specialized chest clinics and registered pharmacies like Sanlive Pharmacy, ensuring you receive authentic, laboratory-verified vials stored in strict Cold-Chain refrigeration ($2$°C to $8$°C). This is critical because the protein derivative is highly heat-sensitive; exposure to room temperature for even a short period can lead to "false negative" results.
Important: This is a high-precision diagnostic biological. The "Intradermal" Rule: This solution must be injected intradermally (into the top layer of the skin) by a trained professional using a "Wheal" technique; it is never for self-use or intramuscular injection. The "Wait Time" Rule: You must return to the clinic exactly 48 to 72 hours after the injection to have the result read; if you wait longer than 72 hours, the test is invalid and must be repeated. The "No Scratch" Warning: Do not scrub, bandage, or apply creams to the injection site while waiting for the reading, as this can interfere with the skin reaction.
Tuberculin PPD Injections are primarily used for:
Tuberculosis Screening: Identifying individuals infected with M. tuberculosis
Contact Tracing: Testing people who have been exposed to an active TB patient
Pre-Employment Screening: Ensuring healthcare and school workers are TB-free
Diagnostic Support: Helping doctors differentiate between TB and other lung conditions
Providing a High-Sensitivity Test for detecting latent (sleeping) TB infections
Offering a Standardized Antigen that yields consistent results globally
Enabling Early Intervention for those who may need preventative TB therapy
This diagnostic is intended for:
Adults and children who have been in close contact with someone with active TB
Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., those living with HIV)
Travelers or workers moving to or from high-burden TB regions like Nigeria
Not recommended for: Individuals with a history of a severe reaction (like skin necrosis or ulceration) to a previous PPD test. It is strictly contraindicated for those with active, extensive burns or live skin rashes at the injection site. Use with caution if you have recently received Live Vaccines (like MMR or Yellow Fever); you should wait 4 to 6 weeks after a live vaccine to do a PPD test to avoid a "false negative." Consult our pharmacist if you have had the BCG Vaccine; the PPD test may show a "false positive" result even if you do not have TB. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant; the PPD test is considered safe and is recommended if you are at high risk of exposure.
Administered via Intradermal Injection (usually 0.1ml of 5 TU) into the inner surface of the forearm.
The "Wheal" Tip: A small, pale bump (6mm to 10mm) should appear immediately after injection; this is normal.
The "Reading" Rule: A healthcare professional will measure only the induration (the hard bump), not the redness (erythema).
The "Positive" Note: A bump of 5mm, 10mm, or 15mm may be considered positive depending on your specific health risks (e.g., 5mm is positive for HIV patients).
Consistency is Vital: If you are part of a two-step testing program, you must return for the second test exactly as scheduled.
If you miss your 72-hour reading window, the test must be repeated on the other arm after at least one week.
Tuberculin PPD is a diagnostic antigen and generally causes only localized reactions, potentially causing:
Injection Site Pain: Mild soreness or itching at the site
Redness and swelling (Erythema) around the bump
A Hardened Bump (Induration): This is the intended diagnostic reaction
Rare but serious: Severe skin ulceration or "sloughing" in highly sensitive individuals
Rare: Temporary fever or swollen lymph nodes in the armpit
Rare: Fainting (Syncope) immediately after the needle prick
Seek medical advice if you experience difficulty breathing, a widespread rash, or if the injection site becomes extremely painful and begins to ooze pus.
Sanofi Pasteur (Tubersol), JHP Pharmaceuticals (Aplisol), or reputable global biological firms—ensuring that every vial meets WHO standards for tuberculin potency and sterility.
100% authentic biological—guaranteed original international stock with verified cold-chain logs.
Guaranteed high-quality storage in Medical Grade Refrigerators with 24/7 power backup.
Professional counseling from licensed pharmacists on "Interpreting Results" and TB safety.
Secure delivery to registered hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers across Nigeria.
Does a "Positive" result mean I have active TB?
No. A positive PPD test only means you have been infected with the TB bacteria. You will need a chest X-ray and a sputum test to determine if the disease is active (contagious) or latent (sleeping).
Can I "Wash" my arm after the injection?
Yes, you can wash gently with soap and water. However, do not rub the area dry with a towel; pat it gently. Avoid using alcohol or perfumes on that spot until after the reading.
Why did my test come back "Negative" when I feel sick?
In some cases, such as very recent exposure (less than 8 weeks) or a very weak immune system, the body may not react to the PPD. Your doctor may recommend a repeat test or a different type of blood test (IGRA).
Where can I purchase Tuberculin PPD in Nigeria?
You can fill your clinical or specialist diagnostic request for verified PPD at Sanlive Pharmacy & Stores for guaranteed product integrity and professional respiratory health support.
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