What does an induration of 10 mm within 48 hours of a Mantoux test indicate?

An induration of 10 mm or more within 48 hours of a Mantoux test indicates that the client has been exposed to the tubercle bacillus, which is the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB). This measurement reflects a positive reaction, typically considered significant in individuals who are at higher risk for tuberculosis, such as those with weakened immune systems or specific clinical risk factors.

In the context of interpreting the Mantoux test, an induration size of 10 mm suggests that the body has mounted an immune response to the proteins injected, often indicating prior exposure to the bacteria, whether through active infection in the past or through a latent form of the disease. While a larger induration could be more indicative of active disease or significant risk factors, the 10 mm result is especially meaningful in evaluating exposure status.

It's important to remember that the Mantoux test results need to be interpreted in conjunction with patient history and risk factors, as not all individuals with a positive result necessarily have active tuberculosis. Other factors, such as receiving the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine or other environmental exposures, can also influence the results, but in the specific case of a 10 mm induration, it indeed demonstrates prior exposure to the