Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs, and early detection is key to preventing its spread. There are two main tests used to diagnose TB:

The Tuberculin Skin Test (TST):

• Also known as the Mantoux test, this involves injecting a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) under the skin of your forearm. After 48 to 72 hours, a healthcare provider checks for a raised, hard bump at the injection site, which indicates a possible TB infection.

The TB Blood Test (Interferon-Gamma Release Assays or IGRAs):

• This blood test measures the immune system’s response to the bacteria that cause TB. It is often used as an alternative to the skin test and can provide quicker results without the need for a follow-up visit.

Both tests are used to detect TB infections, but they differ in their methods and how they are interpreted. If you’re in need of a TB test, Plymouth Urgent Care offers convenient and reliable testing options to ensure your health and safety. Whether you choose the Tuberculin Skin Test or the TB Blood Test, our experienced medical team will provide accurate results and guide you through the next steps.

At Plymouth Urgent Care, we understand that tuberculosis (TB) often starts with subtle symptoms that can easily be confused with more common illnesses. The five early warning symptoms of tuberculosis (TB) include:

• Persistent Cough: A cough that lasts for more than three weeks, often producing mucus or blood. This is one of the most common early signs and should not be ignored if it persists.

• Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant weight loss without any change in diet or physical activity. This can be a result of the body’s response to the infection.

• Night Sweats: Excessive sweating during the night, often soaking through clothes and sheets. These sweats can be particularly bothersome and disrupt sleep.

• Fatigue or Weakness: Feeling unusually tired, weak, or drained, even with adequate rest. This constant exhaustion can interfere with daily activities and quality of life.

• Fever: A low-grade fever that lasts for several weeks, often accompanied by chills. This persistent fever is the body’s way of fighting the infection.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Early detection and treatment of TB can help prevent its spread and improve health outcomes. Our experienced medical team at Plymouth Urgent Care can provide the necessary testing and guidance to ensure you get the appropriate treatment as soon as possible.

If you’ve received a positive tuberculosis (TB) test—such as a tuberculin skin test (TST) or an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA)—at Plymouth Urgent Care, it’s important to know that this result indicates exposure to TB bacteria, but does not automatically mean you have active TB disease.

If you receive a positive TB test result, the next step is to undergo further evaluation to determine whether the infection is active or latent.

Here’s what typically happens next:

• Follow-up Test: A chest X-ray will usually be ordered to check for signs of active tuberculosis in the lungs. This helps assess if the infection is causing symptoms or if it’s dormant.

• Sputum Test: If the chest X-ray shows signs of active TB, a sputum test (examining mucus from your lungs) may be performed to confirm the presence of TB bacteria.

• Medical Assessment: Based on the results, your healthcare provider will determine if you have active TB, which requires immediate treatment with antibiotics. If the test shows latent TB, treatment may be recommended to prevent it from becoming active.

• Treatment Plan: For active TB, a treatment plan involving several antibiotics over the course of months will be prescribed. This ensures the infection is fully treated and reduces the risk of spreading it.

• Close Monitoring: Regular follow-up visits are needed to track the progress of treatment and manage any side effects of the medication.

Following your Plymouth Urgent Care provider’s recommendations after a positive TB test is essential to protect your health and prevent the spread of TB. If you have questions or need follow-up care, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

A TB test is generally not painful, though the experience may vary depending on the type of test used:

• Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): The test involves a small injection of purified protein derivative (PPD) under the skin, typically on your forearm. You may feel a slight pinch or a small sting when the needle is inserted. Afterward, you might experience some mild redness or swelling at the site, but these sensations usually resolve quickly.

• TB Blood Test (IGRAs): A blood sample is drawn, which is similar to any routine blood draw. You may feel a brief pinch or discomfort when the needle is inserted into your arm, but it should not be painful.

In both cases, any discomfort is typically mild and temporary. If you experience any unusual pain, swelling, or irritation following a TB test, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider.

At Plymouth Urgent Care, we strive to make every visit as comfortable as possible. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care in a welcoming environment, ensuring that your experience is as stress-free and efficient as we can make it. Whether you’re here for a routine check-up, an urgent concern, or a specialized test, we prioritize your comfort and well-being throughout the entire process. Our goal is to deliver high-quality healthcare while making sure you feel at ease every step of the way.

Choosing Dr. Muhammad Ali, MD, at Plymouth Urgent Care for your TB testing needs ensures you receive thorough and compassionate care from a skilled physician with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing a wide range of medical conditions. Dr. Ali is dedicated to providing high-quality care for all of his patients, offering efficient and accurate TB testing while maintaining a focus on comfort and clear communication. He ensures that every step of the testing process is explained thoroughly, giving you peace of mind throughout the experience.

At Plymouth Urgent Care, Dr. Ali and his team work diligently to make the testing process as quick and convenient as possible. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be met with professional care and a commitment to your well-being. Dr. Ali takes the time to answer any questions you may have, ensuring you fully understand the procedure and what to expect from your results. Whether you’re getting tested for employment, travel, or general health purposes, you can trust Dr. Ali and the team to provide efficient service while prioritizing your comfort and overall health.

For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment. We are conveniently located at 41424 Ann Arbor Rd. Plymouth MI 48170. We serve patients from Southfield MI, Roseville MI, Rochester MI, Detroit MI, Northville MI, Westland MI, and Parshallville MI.