TB (Tuberculosis) Testing
Summit Health offers the Mantoux tuberculin skin test (TST) for asymptomatic patients. The test takes two visits: one to place it, and a return visit 48 to 72 hours later to read the result.
How TB skin testing works
A TB skin test requires two visits with the Summit team. Both are booked separately, and the second has to fall inside a 48 to 72 hour window.
TB Skin Test, initial appointment
A small amount of fluid called tuberculin is injected into the skin on the underside of the forearm. The appointment takes about 20 minutes.
TB Skin Test reading
You return within 48 to 72 hours so a Summit Health healthcare professional can examine the arm for a reaction. The result depends on the swelling or raised area at the injection site. About 15 minutes.
Who should have a tuberculosis test?
We can test you
We provide TB testing for any asymptomatic patient regardless of age. Patients typically need TB testing for travel, school or employment. Summit Health tests individuals, groups, employers and organizations.
We cannot test you if
- You have had drastic weight loss in the past 6 months, a persistent cough, or shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
- You are under 18 and have previously tested positive.
- You have been in contact with someone who tested positive for TB. Please contact your local public health agency and your family physician instead.
For the safety of our patients and team, we ask every patient attending for a TB test to wear a mask in the waiting room and during the test.
Transparent, flat-fee pricing
Both appointments are private pay and are booked separately. An attestation of your result is issued by the clinic and can be sent to you electronically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book your TB skin test.
Available at Summit Health clinics across Quebec and Ontario. For group or organization testing, call us directly.