Tuberculosis Testing
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial disease that can thrive in various parts of the body. It primarily spreads through the air from person to person, with the lungs being the most commonly affected area. However, TB can also impact other organs like the spine, kidneys, or brain.
Understanding Tuberculosis Infection Types
There are two types of tuberculosis infection:
- Latent TB Infection: In this case, the bacteria exist in a person’s body, but their immune system successfully prevents the bacteria from spreading. This leaves the individual without symptoms and feeling well. Importantly, latent TB cannot be transmitted to others. However, if left untreated, latent TB infection can progress to TB disease.
- Tuberculosis Disease: TB disease is contagious and typically manifests with symptoms such as night sweats, prolonged coughing, and weight loss.
Common Tuberculosis Symptoms
If you suspect a tuberculosis infection, consider these common symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Persistent cough lasting over three weeks
- Night sweats and chills
- Fever
- Coughing up mucus or blood
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
- Tuberculosis Testing Options
We offer two types of tuberculosis tests to detect and manage TB infections:
Tuberculin Skin Test (TST):
- Our medical providers administer the tuberculin skin test by injecting tuberculin under the skin of your lower arm using a small needle.
- A small bump should appear at the injection site.
- You will need to return a couple of days later to evaluate if there is a reaction.
- A positive test result may lead to a prescribed medication to prevent inactive bacteria from becoming active.
- TB skin tests are safe for all ages, including pregnant women and individuals living with HIV.
Please note: Inform our medical providers if you’ve previously had this skin test and experienced a severe reaction.
Tuberculosis Blood Test:
- This test is straightforward; a medical professional collects blood samples from you.
- The samples are then sent to a lab for testing.
- A positive result may require further tests to determine if the diagnosis is latent or active TB.
- If it’s active TB, treatment may involve a long-term antibiotic prescription (up to 9 months).
Visit one of our 35+ locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tuberculosis (TB), and how is it transmitted?
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial disease that can affect various parts of the body. It primarily spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The lungs are the most commonly affected, but TB can also impact organs like the spine, kidneys, or brain.
What are the two types of tuberculosis infection, and how do they differ?
There are two types of TB infection:
- Latent TB Infection: In this type, the body’s immune system prevents the TB bacteria from spreading. This results in no symptoms, and it is not contagious. However, latent TB can progress to TB disease if left untreated.
- Tuberculosis Disease: TB disease is contagious and causes symptoms such as night sweats, prolonged coughing, and weight loss.
What are the common symptoms of tuberculosis (TB)?
If you suspect a TB infection, watch for these common symptoms:
- Chest pain
- A persistent cough lasting over three weeks
- Night sweats and chills
- Fever
- Coughing up mucus or blood
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
What types of tuberculosis testing are available at Midwest Express Clinic?
We offer two types of TB tests:
- Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): Administered by injecting tuberculin under the skin of your lower arm, this test produces a small bump at the injection site. A positive result may lead to medication to prevent inactive bacteria from becoming active. It is safe for all ages.
- Tuberculosis Blood Test: This test involves collecting blood samples, which are sent to a lab for testing. A positive result may require further tests to determine if the TB infection is latent or active.
Are TB tests safe for all individuals, including pregnant women and those with HIV?
Yes, TB skin tests are safe for persons of all ages, including pregnant women and people living with HIV.
What should I do if I've had a severe reaction to a TB skin test in the past?
It’s important to inform our medical providers about any previous severe reactions to TB skin tests.
How is tuberculosis (TB) disease treated if diagnosed?
Treatment for TB disease may involve a long-term antibiotic prescription, lasting up to 9 months.
Can I get a TB test at Midwest Express Clinic for school, employment, or other purposes?
Yes, we offer TB testing services for various reasons, including school and employment requirements. Please visit one of our convenient Midwest Express Clinic urgent care locations for your TB testing needs.
How can I schedule a tuberculosis (TB) test at Midwest Express Clinic?
To schedule a TB test, please contact our clinic or visit our website for appointment information.
What payment options are available for TB testing services?
We accept most major insurances for TB testing. Additionally, we offer affordable self-pay rates if necessary. It’s essential to note that OB/GYN ultrasounds for evaluating pregnancies may not be covered by insurance. We recommend reaching out to your insurance carrier to understand your plan’s coverage.
Tuberculosis Testing is available at these locations:
Illinois
Aurora
Blue Island
Bolingbrook
Bourbonnais
Burbank
Calumet Park
Carol Stream
Chicago Ridge (coming soon)
Cicero
Elmhurst on Butterfield
Elmhurst on York Street (coming soon)
Lombard
Matteson
Melrose Park
Norridge
Northbrook
Richton Park
River Forest
Skokie
Tinley Park on Harlem
Tinley Park on LaGrange
Westmont (coming soon)
Wheaton (coming soon)
Willowbrook
Indiana
Cedar Lake
Crown Point on Burr & 30
Crown Point on 109th & Broadway
Dyer
Griffith
Griffith next to Walgreens
Hammond on 5th Avenue
Hammond on Sibley
Hobart
Merrillville
Merrillville next to Walgreens (coming soon)
Michigan City
Munster
Portage
Portage next to Walgreens (coming soon)
Schererville
