What it does
Tuberculin is a substance used in skin tests to check for tuberculosis (TB) infection.
Commonly used for: tuberculosis infection (TB)
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 22:09:56 · updated 2026-03-23 04:55:07
About this medicine
Tuberculin is a substance used in skin tests to check for tuberculosis (TB) infection.
What it treats
- tuberculosis infection (TB)
How it works
Tuberculin helps identify if someone has been exposed to the bacteria that cause TB by causing a reaction in the skin.
Who it's for
It is used for people who may have been exposed to tuberculosis or are at risk of TB.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: tuberculin
Tuberculin is a purified protein derivative (PPD) used primarily in the diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB). It is derived from the culture filtrates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is administered intradermally to elicit an immune response in individuals who have been exposed to the bacteria. The standard test for tuberculin is the Mantoux test, which measures the induration produced by the immune response at the injection site after 48 to 72 hours.
Indications
- Diagnosis of tuberculosis infection
- Screening for latent tuberculosis
- Assessment of immune response in individuals at risk for TB
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information, as it may vary based on the test protocol and local recommendations.
Adults: Refer to clinical guidelines for specific dosing information, as it may vary based on the test protocol and local recommendations.
Mechanism of action
Tuberculin works by stimulating a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction mediated by T lymphocytes. When tuberculin is injected, it interacts with specific T cells that have previously been sensitized to Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens. This leads to the release of cytokines and the recruitment of inflammatory cells to the site, resulting in the characteristic induration seen in a positive test.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effect of tuberculin is the elicitation of a localized immune response, specifically a type IV hypersensitivity reaction. This response is specific to individuals who have had prior exposure to TB, either through infection or vaccination with the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine. The size of the induration correlates with the degree of sensitization and potential exposure to TB.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of tuberculin are less well defined since it is not absorbed systemically in the same way as conventional drugs. Following intradermal administration, tuberculin remains localized at the injection site, where it interacts with local immune cells. The peak response typically occurs within 48 to 72 hours, after which the induration may resolve over several days to weeks.
Contra-indications
- History of severe allergic reaction to tuberculin or any component of the formulation
- Active tuberculosis infection
Adverse effects
- Local reactions at the injection site such as redness, swelling, or itching
- Fever
- Malaise
- Rarely, systemic allergic reactions
Interactions
- Immunosuppressive therapies may affect the response to tuberculin skin testing
- Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine may lead to false-positive results
Precautions
- Use with caution in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity reactions
- Consider the potential for false-negative results in immunocompromised patients
Pregnancy
No specific contraindications have been established, but consult healthcare providers regarding the benefits and risks.
Breast-feeding
Generally considered safe, but consult healthcare providers for individual assessment.
Storage
Store at 2-8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Formulations
- Tuberculin purified protein derivative (PPD) for intradermal administration
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.