CALMETTE TEST Meaning and
Definition
-
The Calmette test, also known as the tuberculin skin test or the Mantoux test, is a diagnostic tool used to screen for tuberculosis infection. It was developed by Albert Calmette, a French physician, in the early 20th century. The test involves injecting a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) tuberculin, which is a protein extract from the bacteria that cause tuberculosis, into the inner forearm of a patient. After a period of 48 to 72 hours, the injection site is examined for any signs of reaction.
The Calmette test functions based on the principle that individuals who have been exposed to the tuberculosis bacteria will have a delayed hypersensitivity reaction when exposed to the tuberculin protein. The reaction typically presents as a raised, red bump at the injection site. The size of the reaction is measured in millimeters and serves as an indication of the individual's immune response to tuberculosis.
The Calmette test is commonly used as a screening tool, particularly in high-risk populations or when there is suspicion of tuberculosis exposure. A positive test indicates that the individual has been exposed to tuberculosis but does not necessarily imply active infection or disease. In such cases, additional diagnostic tests, such as chest X-rays or sputum cultures, may be required for accurate diagnosis and further management. The Calmette test is not recommended for individuals who have received the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, as it may elicit a false-positive result due to the vaccine's similar antigens.
-
See conjunctival reaction.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CALMETTE TEST
- xalmette test
- valmette test
- falmette test
- dalmette test
- czlmette test
- cslmette test
- cwlmette test
- cqlmette test
- cakmette test
- capmette test
- caomette test
- calnette test
- calkette test
- caljette test
- calmwtte test
- calmstte test
- calmdtte test
- calmrtte test
- calm4tte test
- calm3tte test
Etymology of CALMETTE TEST
The term "Calmette test" is named after Albert Calmette, a French physician and bacteriologist. The test is named in his honor because he developed the technique known as the "Calmette skin test" or the "tuberculin skin test". This test is used to diagnose tuberculosis infection by injecting a small amount of tuberculin, a protein derived from the bacteria causing tuberculosis, under the skin and observing the reaction. The Calmette test, introduced by Albert Calmette in the early 1900s, was a significant advancement in tuberculosis diagnosis and played a crucial role in controlling the disease.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
