DrugindexOnline^{2nd edition}

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S.—

• Aplisol
• Aplitest
• Tuberculin PPD TINE TEST
• Tubersol

In Canada—

• Tubersol

Category

• Diagnostic aid, tuberculosis

Description

Tuberculin (too-BER-kyu-lin), purified protein derivative (PPD) is used as a test to help diagnose tuberculous infection.

How the test is done: Tuberculin PPD is injected into the surface layers of the skin. If the test is positive, a reaction will be seen at and around the place of injection or puncture. If the test is given using an injection, this reaction is usually a hard, raised area with clear margins. If the test is given using the puncture devices, the reaction is usually a swollen area at the puncture site. Forty-eight to 72 hours after administration of the injection the size of the reaction is measured and recorded and the results of the test are studied.

Tuberculin PPD is to be used only by or under the supervision of a doctor. It is available in the following dosage forms:

• Parenteral
• Injection (U.S. and Canada)
• Multiple-puncture device (U.S.)

Before Having This Test

In deciding to use a diagnostic test, the risks of the test must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For tuberculin PPD, the following should be considered:

Allergies—Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to tuberculin PPD. Also tell your health care professional if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives, or dyes.

Pregnancy—Studies on the effects in pregnancy have not been done in either humans or animals. However, pregnancy may affect your reaction to the test. Before you receive tuberculin PPD, make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or if you may become pregnant.

Breast-feeding—It is not known whether tuberculin PPD passes into the breast milk. However, tuberculin PPD has not been reported to cause problems in nursing babies.

Children—Although there is no specific information comparing use of tuberculin PPD in children with use in other age groups, this diagnostic test is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults.

Older adults—Reactions to tuberculin PPD in older patients may be more likely to develop slowly and may not reach the peak effect until after 72 hours.

Other medicines—Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your health care professional if you are taking any other prescription or non prescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine, including steroids.

Other medical problems—The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of tuberculin PPD. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Positive tuberculin reaction (previous)—The reaction to tuberculin PPD may be severe, possibly causing sores on the skin where the test is given

Side Effects of This Test

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.

Developed: 08/01/1995

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