PPD Skin Test
Alternate Names : Purified Protein Derivative Standard, TB Skin Test, Tuberculin Skin Test
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Tuberculosis in the Kidney
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Kidneys can be damaged by tuberculosis. Tuberculosis generally affects the lungs, but may cause infection in many other organs in the body. (Courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.)
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Tuberculosis in the Lung
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Tuberculosis is caused by a group of organisms Mycobacterium tuberculosis, M. bovis, M. africanum and a few other rarer subtypes. Tuberculosis usually appears as a lung (pulmonary) infection. However, it may infect other organs in the body. Recently, antibiotic-resistant strains of tuberculosis have appeared. With increasing numbers of immunocompromised individuals with AIDS, and homeless people without medical care, tuberculosis is seen more frequently today. (Courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.)
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Positive Ppd Skin Test
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The positive immunologic response to PPD antigen is seen here. The size of the papule is over 2 cm. In diameter.
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PPD Skin Test
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The purified protein derivative is an antigen (a substance that stimulates the immune system to eliminate or fight foreign substances in the body), which is injected under the skin in the forearem. After 48 to 72 hours the injection site is evaluated by a physician. This skin test helps determine if a person has ever been infected by the microorganism that causes tuberculosis.
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