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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is The First PPD Test Positive Result A False One?

About 4 months ago, I got the PPD Test done and they said it was positive. I did the chest x-ray and it was negative. I just got another PPD test dont a couple days ago and the test was negative. Is it necessary for me to take the medication and should the first test be looked at as a false positive?
Mon, 3 Nov 2014
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Radiologist,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for writing in.

There are occasions when the PPD test must be dealt with caution especially when first test is positive and repeat test is negative. It is important to know what are the symptoms you were suffering from earlier and if they have improved now. It is not clear from your query if you started taking medication 4 months back or are waiting to start pending your second PPD report. If you are waiting for the second PPD report and chest X ray findings to be discussed then I suggest you do not start taking any medications and first get a gold or platinum test done to measure IgG or IgM antibodies to TB. Only if there is a recent indication of infection should you start medications. PPD test report cannot be trusted for the start of medication in the absence of symptoms.
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Is The First PPD Test Positive Result A False One?

Hi, Thanks for writing in. There are occasions when the PPD test must be dealt with caution especially when first test is positive and repeat test is negative. It is important to know what are the symptoms you were suffering from earlier and if they have improved now. It is not clear from your query if you started taking medication 4 months back or are waiting to start pending your second PPD report. If you are waiting for the second PPD report and chest X ray findings to be discussed then I suggest you do not start taking any medications and first get a gold or platinum test done to measure IgG or IgM antibodies to TB. Only if there is a recent indication of infection should you start medications. PPD test report cannot be trusted for the start of medication in the absence of symptoms.