TB Testing Near Me in Palo Alto, CA
Our Labs Are Minutes Away From Your Home or Office
T-Spot I TB PPD Skin Test
QuantiFERON-TB Gold
TB Testing Locations in All Cities & States
Tuberculosis (TB) Testing Made Simple and Reliable
Lab Testing USA provides an extensive network of TB testing facilities across Palo Alto, CA and a wide array of urban and metropolitan areas throughout the United States, including all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Our competent and certified personnel are equipped to administer TB tests for work, educational, or personal needs. Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that primarily impacts the lungs and can spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly. Identifying TB early is crucial to maintain your health and stop it from spreading. At Lab Testing USA, we offer quick, convenient, and reliable TB testing services with locations spread nationwide, same-day appointment availability, and trustworthy certified labs. Whether you require a TB skin test (PPD) or a TB blood test (QuantiFERON-TB Gold or T-Spot) due to work, academic requirements, immigration purposes, or personal assurance, our expert services ensure you receive trustworthy results with ease. Call us toll-free at (800)441-2728 to locate the nearest TB test facility in Palo Alto, CA for you.
TB Testing Methods Available
TB PPD Skin Test
T-SPOT®TB Test
QuantiFERON Gold -TB Test
32 Alcohol-Test Centers in Palo Alto
What is a TB PPD Skin Test
The TB skin test is a traditional and widely used screening method. A small amount of purified protein derivative (tuberculin) is injected under the skin on the forearm
How it Works in Palo Alto, CA
- Donor receives donor pass and proceeds for initial tuberculin injection
- This test requires the donor to follow-up visit within 48–72 hours to have the results read
- A trained healthcare professional examines the site for a reaction, which indicates potential TB infection
What is a TB Skin Test Used For?
- Routine screenings for schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings in Palo Alto, CA
- Those, in Palo Alto, CA, requiring a low-cost, reliable initial screening method
What is a QuantiFERON Gold TB Test
The QuantiFERON Gold TB blood test s a modern blood test offering fast, accurate results without the need for multiple appointments. The QuantiFERON Tb Test is (often abbreviated as QFT or QFT-Plus in its latest version)
Key Advantages in Palo Alto, CA:
- Performed in one visit- no return appointment required
- Not affected by prior BCG vaccination, which can cause false positives in skin tests.
- No risk of subjective reading differences or human error
What is a QuantiFERON TB Test Used For?
- Screening for TB infection in Palo Alto, CA workplaces (e.g., healthcare, schools, government).
- Pre-employment testing in Palo Alto, CA
- Palo Alto, CA Immigration, travel, or school requirements.
- When accuracy is especially important (e.g., individuals vaccinated with BCG).
What is an T-SPOT®.TB Test
The T-SPOT®.TB test is an advanced, laboratory-based blood test that detects the presence of T cells responding to Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens. This method captures interferon gamma (IFN-γ) released by immune cells when exposed to TB proteins, providing a highly sensitive and specific result. FDA-approved and widely used for detecting latent TB infection and supporting active TB evaluation.
Key Benefits in Palo Alto, CA
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Aids in the diagnosis of latent and active TB infection
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Useful when skin test results are unclear or affected by prior BCG vaccination
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Performed in a single visit with results reviewed by certified labs
What is a T SPOT TB Test Used For?
- Palo Alto, CA Employment & Occupational Screening: Healthcare workers, teachers, government employees, and others in safety-sensitive positions often need TB clearance.
- Palo Alto, CA Immigration / Visa Requirements: Many countries accept the T-SPOT.TB as proof of TB screening.
- Palo Alto, CA School & University Enrollment: Students (especially in medical or childcare fields) may be required to take it.
- Palo Alto, CA Medical Evaluation: Doctors may order it for patients with risk factors, immune system concerns, or a history of TB exposure.
- When BCG Vaccine Has Been Given: Unlike the TB skin test, the T-SPOT.TB is not affected by prior BCG vaccination, which helps avoid false positives.
What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that spread through the air from person to person. While TB most commonly affects the lungs, it can also impact other areas of the body, including the brain, kidneys, and spine. Without proper treatment, TB can become life-threatening.
There are two main states: latent TB infection (you have TB bacteria in your body but no symptoms, non-infectious) and active TB disease (you have symptoms, can spread it)
Testing helps identify who has been exposed or infected, even if they are not yet sick, so they can get treatment if needed and prevent spread.
What happens if the test is positive or negative?
- Positive results for a skin or blood test means you have likely been infected with the TB bacteria. This does not tell you if it is an active infection. To check for active TB, doctors will often order a TB chest x-ray and sputum test
- Negative results means that no evidence (by that test result) of infection. Sometimes this isn't perfect, for example, a very recent infection might not yet be detected, or immune suppression might reduce response.
What are the side effects of risks of TB tests?
- Very minimal
- Skin test-mild pain, redness, swelling at the injection site
- Blood test- pain or bruising at needle site. Rare allergic reaction possible
How often should I be tested for TB?
This will depend on a person's risk factor. People who work in healthcare, live in high TB burden settings or have certain medical conditions might need regular testing. For most people, they only need to be tested when there is an immediate risk or exposure.
TB Testing Near Me in Palo Alto, CA
Tuberculosis (TB) Testing Made Simple and Reliable
Searching for a "TB test near me"? At Lab Testing USA, we make tuberculosis testing simple, fast, and affordable. Whether you need a TB skin test (PPD/Mantoux) or a TB blood test (QuantiFERON-TB Gold or T-Spot), we have nationwide locations with same-day appointments available.
Lab Testing USA Offers
- ✓ Fast Turnaround: Most results available within 24–48 hours.
- ✓ Nationwide Coverage: Thousands of testing centers across the U.S.
- ✓ No Doctor's Visit Needed: Order your test online, visit the lab, and get results securely.
- ✓ Affordable Pricing: Transparent rates with no hidden fees.
Whether for employment, school, healthcare clearance, or personal peace of mind, Lab Testing USA is your trusted partner for convenient TB testing anywhere in the United States.
Compare TB Tests: Skin Test vs. QuantiFERON-TB Gold vs. T-SPOT.TB
Choose the right test for employment, school, immigration, or routine screening. Nationwide labs, same-day appointments, fast results.
TB Skin Test (TST/PPD)
Two-step process with a return visit in 48–72 hours for reading.
- Low cost, widely accepted
- Requires return visit
- BCG vaccine may cause false positives
QuantiFERON-TB Gold (IGRA)
Single-visit blood test; lab measures interferon-gamma release.
- No return visit required
- Unaffected by BCG vaccination
- Lab-based; rapid turnaround
T-SPOT.TB (IGRA)
Single-visit blood test; counts TB-specific T-cell “spots.”
- No return visit required
- Unaffected by BCG vaccination
- Useful when QFT is indeterminate
Frequently asked questions about TB Testing
1. What TB testing options are available in Palo Alto, CA?
Answer: In Palo Alto, CA, we provide TB skin tests (PPD) and TB blood tests (QuantiFERON-TB Gold and T-Spot) for various requirements including employment, school, and immigration.
2. How soon can I get my TB test results?
Answer: Test results are typically ready within 24 to 48 hours for TB skin tests, while TB blood tests may take 2 to 3 business days.
3. Do you offer same-day appointments for TB testing?
Answer: Yes, Lab Testing USA offers same-day scheduling options for TB tests to accommodate urgent needs.
4. Is an appointment necessary, or do you accept walk-ins?
Answer: While walk-ins are welcome, we recommend scheduling an appointment to ensure prompt service availability.
5. Are there any prerequisites for taking a TB test?
Answer: It's essential not to cover the test area with tight clothing and avoid applying lotions. Consult with our staff for any specific preparations based on the type of test.
6. Can children be tested for TB at your locations?
Answer: Yes, we conduct TB tests for individuals of all ages, including children, to ascertain their TB status.
7. How is confidentiality maintained for my TB test results?
Answer: Lab Testing USA adheres to strict confidentiality protocols, ensuring your results are securely shared only with you or authorized personnel.
8. What are the costs associated with TB testing?
Answer: The cost of TB testing varies depending on the type of test and location. Contact our office for detailed pricing information.
TB Testing in Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto, California, is a vibrant city known for its role as a central part of Silicon Valley. Renowned for its innovative spirit, it hosts a significant number of high-tech companies and startups. It serves as the headquarters or office location for numerous industry-leading firms, making it a hub for technological advances.
Palo Alto is home to Stanford University, one of the world's most prestigious educational institutions. The university is a cornerstone of cultural and intellectual life in the region, contributing to the city's dynamic and diverse community. It attracts students and professionals from around the globe, enriching the local environment with a mix of ideas and innovations.
The city boasts a population of over 66,000 people, encompassing a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures. This diversity is reflected in the variety of cultural amenities available, including theaters, art galleries, and community events. Palo Alto's community supports an active lifestyle with numerous parks, open spaces, and recreational facilities.
Palo Alto is situated in Santa Clara County and spans a total area of about 26 square miles, offering residents and visitors a blend of urban and natural beauty. Its proximity to the San Francisco Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains offers scenic landscapes, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Economically, Palo Alto thrives as a center for venture capital investment, supporting the tech industry with essential financial backing. This has spurred the growth and success of many pioneering companies, solidifying its place as a global leader in technological development and innovation.
The city is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Palo Alto has implemented numerous green initiatives and sustainability programs, striving to reduce its carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly practices. This commitment to sustainability enhances the quality of life for its residents.
Palo Alto's transportation infrastructure is well-developed, with convenient access to public transportation such as Caltrain, making commuting within Silicon Valley and to San Francisco practical and efficient. This facilitates robust connectivity for residents, workers, and visitors alike.