Skin Test for TB Diagnosis: When Is It Needed

Do you need a Tuberculosis test? There are two options for you, the one is blood test and the other is TB skin test. See the current prices among clinics where tuberculosis treatment is available.

Why Is It Requested?

The TB skin test or Mantoux may be prescribed by the doctor if you have:

• Cough and chest pains
• Was exposed to a person with TB
• Other breathing problems or allergies

Price

The price of skin test in the Philippines may start from Php 4,300 to Php 7,500. Remember that the allergy test may also be included in the package for different substances.

Our compiled data shows that both PPD and tuberculin test may be availed in hospitals. The price of PPD test in the Philippines may start from Php 2,600 for special partner clinics and hospitals. It may be more economical if you ask about the set where multiple test is included in a single payment.

Most hospitals already have a dedicated laboratory for testing and screening. You simply need to choose the hospital near you for convenient.

Government Hospitals

Most government hospitals offer treatment for TB. Moreover, there are LGU that offers DOTS services to their constituents. You may want to try inquiring from any of these public hospitals. A cheap skin test starts from ₱ 3,800 in public hospitals.

Other patients may look for promo prices included in medical packages for diagnostics. A home service test may also be possible if the center has the right equipment and facilities.

For bills reaching at least Php 3,000, an installment payment plan for skin test is possible. You can use your credit card and convert the total amount into segments for 3 to 6 months.

You may find public hospitals that offer the diagnostic for free. However, this may only be possible if a current LGU program is available. On the other hand, rates in private hospitals are still affordable.

In most cases, laboratory and medical diagnostics like skin test for TB are not covered by health cards or even Philhealth. It is best to ask your provider if your policy will be able to give coverage for the procedure that you need.

The Mantoux tuberculin test is a method to identify any infection of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The doctor may recommend the best diagnostics for your case.

How Will I Know If I Have the Disease

There are some symptoms that can be associated with having TB. They may include cough that does not stop, cough with phlegm or blood and even having fever every afternoon or night.

However, if you have these symptoms, it does not mean you already have an existing infection. Some people may have the bacteria in their bodies but they are not feeling sick. This is the reason why your doctor may recommend a test.

Skin vs Blood Test

The blood test will involve extracting blood from you. The process will involve injecting a small amount of fluid tuberculin to your skin. If you have a swelling part in the injection site after 48 to 72 hours, you may have tuberculosis.

A positive result means you have the disease but the evaluation should come from a medical professional. The swelling of the test area will be evaluated.

References: CDC