Tuberculosis: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
A new healthcare worker receives a PPD test for TB screening. When should the test site be read for accurate results?
A. 12–24 hours
B. 24–36 hours
C. 36–48 hours
D. 48–72 hours
E. 72–96 hours
Answer and topic summary
The answer is D. 48–72 hours
A PPD (purified protein derivative) test, also known as the Mantoux tuberculin skin test, should be read 48–72 hours after placement to ensure accurate detection of induration. Reading the test too early may miss the delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction, while reading it too late may lead to fading of the reaction, decreasing sensitivity. The measurement is based on the size of the induration (not erythema), and interpretation depends on risk factors and immune status, with thresholds at 5 mm, 10 mm, or 15 mm depending on patient category.
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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Pulmonary ⇒ ⇒
