TB TEST

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Here is the info for both the injected type and the " puncture " type (I

don't think these are the proper medical terms, but you

get the idea!) By the way, there are from the PDR. There has also been

lots of cases

where the tests have had false positives.

1. Aplisol (Parke-) = TB purified protein derivative in a sterile

aqueous solution for intradermal administration (shot). Stabilized with

Tween 80,

buffered with potassium and sodium phosphates, and contains approx. 0.35%

phenol as preservative. 0.1mL is injected for the test, and this will give

a

measurable reaction in over 95% of the known TB infected; larger doses may

elicit reactions not caused by TB infection, and lower doses give false

negatives. No contraindications are known, but this should not be

administered to people already known to be positive because they have a

greater chance

of a more severe local reaction.

2. Aplitest (Parke-) = TB purified protein derivative multiple

puncture device. Sterile, single use mulitple puncture device for

percutaneous

administration. Each unit consists of a cylindrical plastic holder bearing

four equally spaced stainless steel tines at one end. The tines have been

coated by

dipping ina solution of tuberculin PPD and dried. The tuberculin solution

applied to the tines in buffered with potassium and sodium phosphates and

contains

approximately 0.5% phenol. Repeated testing of an uninfected individual

does not sensitize to tuberculin.

Adverse reactions for both are the same-- " In highly sensitive individuals,

strongly positive reactions including vesiculation, ulceration or necrosis

may occur at

the test site...Strongly positive test reactions may result in scarring at

the test site. Immediate erythematous or other reactions may occur at the

injection site.

The reason(s) for these infrequent occurrences are presently unknown. "

After reading this I looked up phenol, or carbolic acid, which according

to my medical encyclopedia is:

" A highly poisonous, harsh chemical taken from coal or plant tar or made

in a laboratory. It has a strong odor and is a strong cleaning fluid

(carbolic acid). "

I would not take the test personally!!!

Hope this helps!!

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