Mantoux test is used for screening of?

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Nsg Entrance-2017

Explanation

The Mantoux test, or Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), is a standard method for determining if a person has been exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
It works by injecting a small amount of Purified Protein Derivative (PPD) intradermally and observing for a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction.
A positive reaction, indicated by a firm, raised swelling (induration) at the injection site after 48-72 hours, suggests a TB infection (either latent or active).
The size of the induration required for a positive result varies depending on the individual's risk factors for TB.

Option A: AIDS is a viral disease caused by HIV. Its diagnosis relies on detecting the virus's antibodies or antigens in the blood.
Option B: Malaria is a parasitic disease. The Mantoux test detects a bacterial immune response, not a parasitic one.
Option D: Hepatitis is typically a viral infection affecting the liver. Diagnosis is done through blood tests for specific viral markers and liver enzymes.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Screening for Tuberculosis using the Mantoux test as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Correct administration (intradermal, not subcutaneous) and accurate reading of the Mantoux test are critical nursing skills for TB control programs.
Patient education is vital. Nurses must instruct patients to return for the reading within the 48-72 hour window, as a reading outside this timeframe is invalid and can lead to misdiagnosis.
Nurses must document the exact location of the injection, the date and time, and the final reading in millimeters of induration.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question, which is 'Mantoux test'.
Recall the primary purpose of this specific diagnostic test from your studies in community health nursing and microbiology.
Evaluate each option to determine which disease is screened using this method.
The Mantoux test is fundamentally linked to Tuberculosis screening.
Eliminate the other options by recalling their distinct and different diagnostic methods (e.g., blood tests for AIDS and Hepatitis, blood smears for Malaria).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart B (pp 202-403 of 604) p. 25-27

E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 378-380

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