What does the Mantoux test screen for?

The Mantoux test, also known as the tuberculin skin test, is specifically designed to screen for tuberculosis (TB) infection. During this test, a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) is injected intradermally into the forearm. If an individual has been exposed to the bacteria that cause tuberculosis, the body’s immune response will result in a localized reaction at the injection site, typically assessed 48 to 72 hours later.

This test is an important public health tool as it helps identify individuals who may have latent TB infection, which can be asymptomatic but still poses a risk of progressing to active disease. Early identification and treatment of TB are crucial in controlling its spread, making the Mantoux test a vital component in tuberculosis screening programs.

In contrast, the other options pertain to conditions that do not use the Mantoux test for screening. Diabetes, influenza, and hepatitis have their own specific screening methods and diagnostic criteria, such as blood tests or symptom assessments, and are not assessed through the Mantoux test. This highlights the specialized role of the Mantoux test solely for tuberculosis detection.