All skin testing for TB shall be done using which method?

The Mantoux method is recognized as the standard procedure for conducting skin tests for tuberculosis (TB). This method involves administering an intradermal injection of a purer form of purified protein derivative (PPD) tuberculin, which is a protein derived from the TB bacteria. After 48 to 72 hours, the injection site is assessed for a specific type of reaction, which indicates whether the individual has been exposed to TB and has mounted an immune response.

The Mantoux method is preferred over other skin testing methods because it has proven to be more accurate and reliable in determining TB infection. It is a well-established procedure within public health for TB screening, particularly important in settings where early detection and prevention of TB disease are critical.

Other methods, such as the QuantiFERON test, are blood tests that measure the immune response to antigens associated with the TB bacteria, but they do not involve skin testing. The skin prick method typically refers to allergy tests and is not applicable for TB testing. The Lumpkin method does not exist as a recognized testing method for TB, making it irrelevant in this context. Therefore, the Mantoux method stands out as the correct choice for skin testing in the diagnosis of tuberculosis.