World Tuberculosis Day is celebrated on March 24 each year to raise public awareness and understanding about the world’s deadliest infectious disease—tuberculosis (TB)—and its potentially crippling health, social and economic impact on people worldwide. The theme for World TB Day 2023 is ‘Yes! We can end TB!’ which sets out to raise public awareness and inspire hope for eradicating the devastating health, social and economic consequences of TB to put an end to the global TB epidemic. Unfortunately, every day close to 4400 people die from TB and close to 30,000 people become sick with it. The good news is, TB is a preventable and curable disease!
PPD (Tuberculosis) Testing
Dr. John Abroon at our medical practice offers PPD (purified protein derivative) tests to assess a patient’s exposure to tuberculosis (TB). This test is also referred to as the Mantoux screening test, and it is performed by administering an intradermal injection of SSI tuberculin. Once the test has been done, we wait for 48-72 hours before our experienced doctor then measures the skin’s reaction to the test.
After assessing the patient’s response to the PPD test, Dr. Abroon will be able to determine the patient’s exposure to tuberculosis. Please note that exposure does not mean that you have contracted this disease, and of course, not all “positive” reactions mean you have it. It is not a good idea to self diagnose TB and end up worrying needlessly. Dr. Abroon can easily and quickly correctly administer the test and diagnose your reaction. If you do have TB, he will discuss tuberculosis with you so that you can take the next steps.
If you would like to learn more about PPD testing or schedule an appointment with our medical office, please do not hesitate to call us at (212) 288-0900 or visit our New York City practice soon. We are here to help you create your best health!