TB Skin Test (Mantoux Test) One-Step & Two-Step
At Hartsland Medical Centre , we provide reliable TB Skin Tests (Mantoux Tests) for work, school, immigration, and healthcare requirements. Whether you need a one-step or two-step test, our experienced team ensures accurate placement, timely reading, and clear follow-up. With affordable pricing and convenient appointments
What is a TB Skin Test?
The TB skin test (Mantoux test) is a simple, reliable way to check if you have been exposed to tuberculosis bacteria. A small amount of testing solution (PPD) is injected just under the skin of your forearm. After 48–72 hours, the site is examined by a healthcare professional to see if there is any reaction.
This test does not give you tuberculosis—it only shows whether your body has been exposed in the past.
One-Step vs Two-Step Testing
One-Step Test
- Involves a single injection and one follow-up visit 48–72 hours later.
- Commonly used for one-time screening such as school, work, travel, or immigration requirements.
Two-Step Test
- Recommended for individuals who will undergo regular TB testing (e.g., healthcare workers, long-term care staff, students in medical fields).
- Consists of two separate tests:
- First injection and reading after 48–72 hours.
- Second injection placed 1–3 weeks later, with another reading after 48–72 hours.
- Helps detect “boosted” immune responses from past exposures and establishes a reliable baseline for future annual testing.
Who Should Get Tested?
You may need a TB Skin Test if you are:
✔️ Starting a new job in healthcare, childcare, education, or community services
✔️ Completing school or volunteer requirements
✔️ Applying for immigration or residency programs
✔️ At higher risk of TB exposure (travel, underlying medical conditions, or medication monitoring)
What to Expect During the Test
- Day 1 – Placement
- A small injection of PPD is placed under the skin of your forearm.
- A raised bump (wheal) forms and usually fades within a few hours.
- Day 2–3 – Reading
- You return after 48–72 hours.
- Our healthcare professional measures the swelling (induration) — not the redness.
- Results are interpreted based on your risk factors and history.
- If Positive
- A positive test doesn’t mean you have active TB.
- You may need a chest X-ray or further medical assessment.
- Once positive, repeat skin tests are usually not required.
Important Patient Instructions
- Do not scratch, cover, or apply lotions to the test site.
- You may bathe or shower normally.
- You must return for the reading within 48–72 hours, or the test will be invalid.
- If you miss your reading, the test may need to be repeated.
Fees – TB Skin Test
| Service | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Injection (Day 1 – placement) | $30 | Required for all tests |
| Reading (Day 2–3 – interpretation) | $30 | Must return within 48–72 hours |
| Second Injection (for two-step test) | $30 | Done 1–3 weeks after first test |
| Second Reading (Day 2–3 after second injection) | $30 | Required for two-step baseline testing |
💡 Coverage Note: In Ontario, OHIP may cover TB skin testing for students . Coverage does not apply for employment, volunteer, immigration, or travel purposes. Please check with your school and our staff before booking.
Book Your TB Skin Test Today
Ready to complete your TB testing requirement? At Hartsland Medical Centre, we make the process simple, accurate, and patient-focused.
📞 Call us today or book your appointment online to schedule your TB Skin Test (Mantoux Test) in Guelph.
👉 Also explore our Immunization Services and Annual Health Check-Ups for complete preventive care.
