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What Does Positive Mantoux Test Mean When Chest X-ray Is Normal?

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Posted on Mon, 20 Apr 2015
Question: Hi Dr,my name is XXXX,42yrs my emailaddress is YYYY@YYYY . I did mantoux test and the result was positive,went for chest x-ray came out cardia normal ,coarse bronchiovascular markings,no focal lung lession,cp angle free,PTB not R/O please what is the meaning
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
It may be a false-positive result.

Detailed Answer:
Hi, I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.

Positive Mantoux test should be correlated with clinical findings and a sputum culture for BCG is necessary in achieving a correct diagnosis.

If no clinical signs, then it may be a false-positive result that may happen after vaccination with BCG ( latent tuberculosis), area where test is done may have been wet, touched or scratched.

In a number of people with compromised immune system, Mantoux test may result false-positive too, so there is need for a clinical correlation with the test result.

You should discuss with your Doctor these possibilities of your concerns.

Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4493 Questions

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What Does Positive Mantoux Test Mean When Chest X-ray Is Normal?

Brief Answer: It may be a false-positive result. Detailed Answer: Hi, I have gone through your question and understand your concerns. Positive Mantoux test should be correlated with clinical findings and a sputum culture for BCG is necessary in achieving a correct diagnosis. If no clinical signs, then it may be a false-positive result that may happen after vaccination with BCG ( latent tuberculosis), area where test is done may have been wet, touched or scratched. In a number of people with compromised immune system, Mantoux test may result false-positive too, so there is need for a clinical correlation with the test result. You should discuss with your Doctor these possibilities of your concerns. Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.