Where Can I Get a TB Test in Horizon City, TX?

At UCare Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinic, we offer comprehensive TB (tuberculosis) testing to help protect your health and the health of our community. Tuberculosis is an infection caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and early detection is important for effective treatment and preventing its spread.

A TB (tuberculosis) test is a medical examination used to determine whether a person has been infected with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. There are two primary types of TB tests: the TB skin test (TST) and the TB blood test (IGRA). In the TB skin test, a small amount of fluid (called PPD) is injected just under the skin of the forearm. The site is then monitored for any reaction, typically within 48 to 72 hours.

A raised bump at the injection site indicates a positive result, suggesting exposure to TB bacteria, though it does not confirm whether the infection is active or latent. The TB blood test, on the other hand, measures the body’s immune response to the bacteria and is often preferred for those who have received the BCG vaccine or have difficulty returning for the skin test follow-up. Both tests are designed to detect latent TB infection, where the bacteria are present in the body but not actively causing symptoms, meaning the person is not contagious. If the test result is positive, further testing, such as a chest X-ray, may be required to determine whether the infection is active. At UCare Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinic, our team is available to guide the next steps if a positive result is detected, ensuring you receive the appropriate care and support.

At UCare Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinic, we offer convenient TB skin tests (Mantoux tuberculin skin tests) for patients who need screening for tuberculosis for work, school, or personal health reasons. Many people wonder if the TB skin test is painful. Rest assured, the procedure is generally only mildly uncomfortable, not truly painful.

During your visit, our experienced healthcare team will inject a small amount of testing fluid (tuberculin) just under the top layer of your skin—typically on your forearm—using a very fine needle. Most patients describe the sensation as a quick pinch or light sting, similar to getting a routine vaccination or blood draw. Any discomfort is brief, lasting just a few seconds.

After the injection, you may notice slight swelling or a small bump at the site. This area can feel a bit tender or itchy for a day or two, which is normal. Some people experience minor redness or mild soreness, but serious reactions are rare. The test is generally well tolerated, even by children and those who may feel nervous about needles. If you have questions or concerns about the TB skin test, our UCare team is happy to discuss them with you and ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible. Your health and peace of mind are our top priorities at UCare Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinic!

At UCare Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinic, we offer convenient and reliable tuberculosis (TB) testing for our patients. The time it takes to complete a TB test depends on the type of test being performed. The TB skin test (TST) requires an initial appointment where a small amount of fluid is injected under the skin. After that, the test site needs to be checked for a reaction within 48 to 72 hours, so a second visit is required to assess the results. This means the total process spans several days, though it only takes a few minutes to administer the test itself.

On the other hand, the TB blood test (IGRA) takes a single visit, where a blood sample is drawn and sent to a lab for analysis. The results typically take 1 to 2 days to process, making this test faster in terms of follow-up. While the test itself only takes a few minutes to complete, the overall time to receive the results is quicker compared to the skin test. At UCare Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinic, we ensure a smooth and efficient process to get you the results you need as soon as possible. Our experienced staff is dedicated to providing quick, reliable testing with minimal wait times. Whether you’re getting a TB skin test or a blood test, we prioritise your comfort and convenience throughout the process. If follow-up steps are needed, we guide you through each stage to ensure you receive the best care and support.

If you are scheduled for a tuberculosis (TB) skin test—also called the Mantoux tuberculin skin test- there are a few important steps to ensure accurate results and the best possible care.

Before a TB test, there are a few things you should avoid to ensure accurate results:

• Avoid applying lotion or creams to the skin: If you’re having a TB skin test (TST), it’s best not to apply any lotions, creams, or ointments to the area where the test will be administered, as these could interfere with the reaction.

• Avoid strenuous activities: While there are no major restrictions, it’s a good idea to avoid heavy exercise or physical strain on the day of the test, especially if you’re having a TB skin test, to prevent irritation or swelling at the injection site.

• Avoid alcohol or smoking: These habits can affect your overall health and immune response, so it’s best to refrain from drinking alcohol or smoking right before the test, though they are not direct contraindications.

• Avoid testing if you’re sick: If you’re feeling unwell, especially if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness, it’s advisable to postpone the test, as this can affect the results and the overall health evaluation.

These precautions can help ensure the test results are as accurate as possible. At UCare Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinic, we are committed to providing you with accurate and reliable TB testing. Our professional team ensures that your test results are clear and trustworthy. If you have any questions or need assistance before your TB test, we are here to help.

For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 13472 Eastlake Blvd, Horizon City, TX 79928. We serve patients from Horizon City TX, El Paso TX, Lee Travino Drive TX, Fort Bliss TX, Mission Valley TX, Resler Canyon TX, Alfalfa TX, Montwood TX, and BEYOND!