Mantouxtesten

The Mantoux test, also known as the tuberculin test, is a diagnostic tool used to detect latent tuberculosis infection. Developed by French physician Charles Mantoux in 1905, the test involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin, a protein derived from the bacteria that causes tuberculosis, into the skin of the individual being tested. The injection is typically made on the forearm, and the area is then observed for a reaction, which can take several days to develop.

The Mantoux test works by detecting the presence of antibodies against the tuberculin protein in the individual's system. If the individual has been exposed to or infected with tuberculosis, their immune system will produce these antibodies, which will react with the tuberculin protein in the test. The reaction, also known as induration (hardening of the skin), is a sign of the immune system's response to the infection.

A positive result on the Mantoux test does not necessarily mean that the individual has active tuberculosis. It can indicate latent tuberculosis infection, which is a condition where the bacteria are present in the body but are not actively causing disease. A healthcare professional will typically interpret the test results in conjunction with other medical history and diagnostic tests to determine the presence of active tuberculosis.

The Mantoux test is an important tool in the diagnosis and control of tuberculosis, particularly in countries where the disease is endemic. It is widely used in conjunction with chest X-rays and other diagnostic tests to identify individuals with latent or active tuberculosis.