Diagnosis of Tuberculosis (TB): Step 1 of 4

Tests for TB

Make an appointment

If you have no active symptoms and/or your doctor recommends TB screening, make an appointment for TB tests.

To confirm if you have TB, you may need to have all or some of the following tests:

1. a tuberculin test (Mantoux test)  to determine exposure to the infection 
   this does not confirm whether you have active TB
   you will have to sign a consent form
2. a blood test to determine exposure to the infection (optional)
3. a chest x-ray to diagnose whether you have active TB
4. a sputum examination (examination of secretion from the lungs) if any doubt exists after the x-ray result.

Less than 3% Australians with evidence of TB exposure are diagnosed with TB each year, and many people (around 80 to 90%) are able to fight off exposure to TB through their immune system.

If at any time you have symptoms of active TB disease, seek medical help quickly or contact us to ensure early diagnosis and treatment.

Last Updated: 28 May 2010
Last Reviewed: 30 April 2010