Suggest Tests To Rule Out Tuberculosis
Visit RNTCP treatment centres in your area
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.
The bacteria causing tuberculosis is widespread in XXXXXXX and practically EVERYBODY has been exposed to this germ and has it in his/her body. But that does not mean that one is infected. Infection occurs only if immunity level is low. A Mantoux tuberculin test cannot distinguish between active and dormant tuberculosis infection, and the results are not definitive. Mantoux tuberculin test is also not reliable if previous immunisation with BCG has been done. The results need confirmation with further blood tests.
Treatment is likely to be required for your niece although a confirmation with TB PCR (blood test) should be done first. Ask her to visit the Chest Units of Health Deprartment under RNTCP (see http://haryanahealth.nic.in/menudesc.aspx?page=86 ) for proper treatment.
About your daughters, if they have been immunized with BCG chances of catching the disease is less. Testing would still be required in their case too.
Let me know if you have any other queries.
Regards
Chest X ray would be required
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for writing back. Primarily a chest X ray would be required. The blood test called TB PCR would be available from private labs. But about the treatment, I would insist on approaching the municipality chest clinics through which RNTCP treatment is provided to the masses. RNTCP is a national program and hence should be available in XXXXXXX
Regards