Hi,
diagnosis of Tb using skin tests deserves a very keen interpretation for a lot of things have to be taken into consideration. A good evaluation of the child is requires to exclude all causes of failure to thrive . TB generally is a curable disease when drugs are taken properly. However, success rates in children depend on feeding and management of other comodities.
I think your pediatrician is better placed to evaluate the child. If its TB, the clinical response shall be felt about three to four weeks after initiation of treatment and the outcome is generally good.
Comply to physicians recommendations and do not hesitate to ask questions when in doubt.
Thanks and best regards,
Luchuo, MD.

Hi

I would like to know if your baby was given BCG vaccine? If so when was it given?
I would also like to know if there was any contact with adult TB - any one with chronic cough, weight loss, fever etc?
What was the measurement of the TB test done on his forearm?

BCG vaccine can cause positive results for the TB test done on his arm. Upto 3 months, the test can be strongly positive. After 3 months, the measurement of the induration on his forearm matters a lot.

How ever what other symptoms does your baby have? Does he have recurrent vomiting/ loose stools/ recurrent illnesses/ fever/ developmental delay etc? What was his birth weight?
How is his intake? What are the food items you give him?
Hope you have started him on semisolids and solids.

Please feel free to get back with details.

I would suggest that other reasons for poor weight gain also be looked into.
His dietary intake- calories needed etc should be looked into in detail and a trial of high calorie and nutritious diet be tried first.

However, if BCG vaccine was not given and there was a contact with adult TB, he must be treated with anti TB drugs.

TB caused by a bacteria- is completely curable. So do not worry.

Hope I have answered your query.
Wish your son good health.