Which test is commonly used for screening tuberculosis in dental hygienists?

The PPD (Purified Protein Derivative) test and the Gold Interferon test are both widely accepted methods for screening tuberculosis (TB), especially in healthcare settings. In the context of dental hygiene, where professionals are often in close contact with patients, screening for TB is essential due to the infectious nature of the disease.

The PPD test, also known as the tuberculin skin test, involves the intradermal injection of a protein derivative to check for a reaction indicating exposure to the bacteria that cause TB. A positive reaction may suggest that the individual has been exposed to the bacteria, though further evaluation is needed to confirm an active infection.

The Gold Interferon test, on the other hand, is a blood test that measures the immune response to specific TB proteins and can be used to identify if someone has been infected with TB bacteria without the need for a skin test.

In the realm of dental hygiene, where the risk of transmission of infectious diseases such as TB is heightened, utilizing these screenings helps ensure both the safety of the dental hygienist and the patients they serve. Other options, like the HBV titer, Complete Blood Count, and HIV test, are relevant to other health concerns but do not specifically screen for tuberculosis exposure