Alison writes:
Back in April of 1997, I was tested positive from a Mantoux test, then my primary care physician sent me to Bryn Mawr Hospital for a chest X-ray, then to a pulmonary specialist which read my lungs as being clear.
What I do not understand is, if I did test positive, does it mean that I did indeed have TB at one point in my life? Do I need to get chest x-rays every year? Or, is it possible that I had a reaction to the mantoux test, which gave a positive test?
The reason that this came up again was I have had some very serious upper-respiratory infections the past year, and was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea. The only thing now that is working is Zyrtec, which indicates that I obviously have allergies.
I recently went for blood work 2 weeks ago (Raft Test) to see what I am allergic too, so that I can have a serum developed. This positive Mantoux does concern me more than anything. My anxiety is that in the back of my mind, could it reactivate, if I actually did have TB?
Thank you for your help.
Alison
Dear Alison:
I'm so sorry to hear about your illnesses and the struggles you have encountered with trying to get your questions answered. I have listed your questions in quotations below and have tried to answer each for you. I have also provided some links that may help you find answers to any other questions you may have.
"If I did test positive, does it mean that I did indeed have TB at one point in my life?"
A positive test result can occur if you:
(See Testing For Tuberculosis)
"Do I need to get chest x-rays every year?"
Generally, this is not necessary, but only your doctor can answer that question.
"Or, is it possible that I had a reaction to the mantoux test, which gave a positive test?"
There are instances when a false-positive result occurs. (See What is a False-Positive Tuberculosis Skin Test?)
It is now recommended that a two-step test be performed to eliminate the possibility of the "booster phenomenon" from occurring.
Alison, you have many valid questions. My suggestion is to write down all of your questions and see your doctor. Although About Lung Diseases has many good resources about Tuberculosis, in order to get individualized information, you really need to talk to your doctor.
I hope I have been of some help to you. Please let me know what you find out. I wish you good health and happiness.
Be sure to check out the Lung Diseases Forum. You may find that it is a great place to share your comments, get your questions answered, and find support from others with your condition.
