TB (Tuberculosis) Screening Clinic in Edmond, OK

We offer essential TB testing services. TB tests enable us to determine if our patients are infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for TB. While this bacterium typically affects the lungs, it has the potential to spread to other areas of the body.

Our TB testing procedures are simple and efficient. The Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) involves a small injection of tuberculin, a protein derived from TB bacteria, into the skin, usually on the inner forearm. If the patient has been exposed to TB, a firm, raised area will develop at the injection site within 48-72 hours, and the size of this bump indicates the level of infection.

We inform our patients that a positive TB test doesn’t necessarily signify an active infection. It could indicate a past infection resulting in latent TB, where the bacteria is present in the body, but it’s not active, and the patient is not contagious. If a positive reaction is found, we take the next steps to confirm the diagnosis by offering further evaluation, such as a chest X-ray or sputum culture, ensuring we determine the most appropriate treatment strategy for you.
Safety is our utmost priority. Our TB test is generally safe, and side effects are rare. Our mission is to control and eliminate TB as a public health concern while delivering the highest standard of care to our patients.

If you have recently immigrated from countries with a high prevalence of TB, such as regions in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America, or frequently travel to these areas, we strongly recommend getting tested. Similarly, if you’ve been in close contact with someone diagnosed with TB, testing is advisable.

Our practice also serves individuals with certain risk factors for TB, including those with HIV/AIDS or other conditions that compromise the immune system, those undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, and those with chronic illnesses like diabetes and kidney disease. If you are on medications that suppress the immune system, have a history of substance abuse, or experience conditions causing significant weight loss, our team is ready to offer the necessary TB testing.

Additionally, we offer testing for individuals working in healthcare or other environments where TB exposure is possible. This is particularly important for healthcare workers in hospitals, nursing homes, and similar facilities, where contact with TB-infected individuals is more likely.

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, Dr. Kevin Penwell and his team understand the importance of tuberculosis (TB) testing in maintaining a healthy community. We offer our patients the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), ensuring we’re equipped to offer the most suitable test for your needs.

Our TB Testing Services

Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): The TB test involves a small PPD injection under the skin with results checked in 48-72 hours. This test is both simple and cost-effective.

Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA): This blood test measures the body’s immune response to TB bacteria and requires only one visit. It often provides more accurate results than the TST.

Timely detection is crucial for preventing the spread of TB and ensuring successful treatment.

The validity of a TST is contingent on the purpose of the test and specific individual circumstances. For instance, if you’re seeking initial screening without known exposure to TB or risk factors, a single TST can remain valid for 6-12 months if negative and up to 3 months if yielding an intermediate result. However, if you’ve been exposed to someone with active TB, the TST should be repeated at intervals to ensure accurate results.

We also offer TSTs for serial testing in individuals with a known or suspected TB infection. This allows us to monitor the infection’s activity or response to treatment, with the validity period varying based on your circumstances.

Several factors can affect the validity of a TST, such as your immune status, the type of antigen used in the test, interpretation of the induration size, and the presence of other medical conditions or treatments. We help you determine the appropriate validity period for your TST based on your specific clinical context.

In certain situations, TB testing may be required for employment, travel, or immigration purposes. At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, we can provide these tests and help you understand the requirements of the requesting entity.

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma in Edmond, OK, we are committed to offering reliable and easily accessible tuberculosis screening services that protect your health and the overall health of our community. Early identification is vital for limiting the spread of tuberculosis and providing prompt, effective treatment. Whether you have symptoms or need a basic screening, our skilled team is here to help. Take control of your health today. Contact us, or book an appointment online. Your well-being is our top priority. We are conveniently located at 805 W Covell Rd Edmond, OK 73003. We serve patients from Edmond OK, Norman (24th) OK, Norman (HealthPlex) OK, West Moore OK, I-240 & Sooner Rd OK, Yukon OK, Valley Brook OK,  Choctaw OK, and Bethany OK.