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Victoria Harris

Tuberculosis ( TB) and the Importance of Testing: 1-Step, 2-Step, and Blood Draw Options


Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the brain and spine. Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. While it can be dormant in some people (latent TB), active TB can be life-threatening if left untreated.


What is TB?


Tuberculosis is an airborne disease that thrives in environments with prolonged close contact. In its latent form, TB can exist in your body without causing symptoms, but it can become active TB if not detected and treated early. Active TB presents symptoms like persistent coughing, chest pain, weight loss, fever, and night sweats.


TB Testing: 1-Step, 2-Step, and Blood Draw




At Quick Test Health Services, we offer three types of TB tests to detect both latent and active TB infections. Our services are available 7 days a week, and walk-ins are welcome.


1-Step TB Skin Test:

This is the most common TB screening test. A small amount of fluid is injected under the skin of your forearm, and after 48-72 hours, you return to have the injection site checked for any reaction. If there is a bump or swelling, further testing may be needed.


  • Who Should Get It?


    This test is often required for school admissions, employment (especially in healthcare), and volunteer programs. It's ideal for people who need a simple, one-time check for TB exposure.


2-Step TB Skin Test:


This test involves two rounds of testing. The first test is administered and checked after 48-72 hours. Then, a second TB test is administered 1 to 3 weeks later and similarly checked. This method ensures more accurate detection for individuals who may not show a reaction in the first test.


  • Who Should Get It?


    Often required for healthcare workers and long-term care facility employees, the 2-step test ensures accurate results for people regularly exposed to TB or in high-risk environments.


TB Blood Test (QuantiFERON-TB Gold Test):


The TB blood test is a highly accurate option that requires a simple blood draw. The test detects TB infection by measuring the immune system's response to TB bacteria. Unlike skin tests, the blood test only requires one visit, and results are typically available within a few days.


  • Who Should Get It?


    This test is ideal for individuals who need a definitive result, have had a previous BCG vaccination (which can cause false positives in skin tests), or prefer a one-time blood draw rather than multiple visits.


Who is at Risk for TB?




Certain groups of people are at higher risk of developing TB, including:

  • Healthcare Workers: Due to frequent exposure to patients, testing is often required for employees in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

  • People with Weakened Immune Systems: Those with conditions such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or undergoing cancer treatment are at increased risk of TB.

  • International Travelers: People traveling to countries where TB is prevalent may be required to get tested before and after travel.

  • Close Contacts of TB-Infected Individuals: Family members, roommates, or coworkers of individuals diagnosed with TB are encouraged to get tested.

  • Residents of Group Living Settings: People living in prisons, shelters, and long-term care facilities are more susceptible to TB due to close living quarters.


Why Choose Quick Test Health Services?


At Quick Test Health Services, we offer all three types of TB testing—1-Step, 2-Step, and Blood Draw (QuantiFERON-TB Gold Test). We provide discreet, fast, and reliable results, ensuring you get the testing you need when you need it.


Why Choose Us?

  • Open 7 Days a Week: No need to wait for appointments; we are here when you need us.

  • Walk-ins Welcome: No appointment necessary—come in anytime.

  • Fast Results: Get your results quickly so you can take action.


Get Tested for TB Today


Whether you're required to get tested for work, school, or travel, or if you're simply looking for peace of mind, Quick Test Health Services is here to help. We offer convenient TB testing options with no appointment needed.

Location:7165 E. University Dr #155, Mesa, AZ

📞 Call Us: 602-428-4557✉️ Email: info@quicktestservices.com

Walk in today for fast, reliable TB testing!

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