Comparison of Mantoux's test with diagnostic BCG in pediatric patients with pulmonary tuberculosis.

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary tuberculosis is a common problem in all age groups in our country. Different tests are performed for diagnosis of this disease. This study was carried out with an objective to compare Mantoux's test with diagnostic BCG in pediatric patients known to have pulmonary tuberculosis.

METHODS

This study was conducted on one hundred children of either sex, age up to 15 years, suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis. Mantoux's test and diagnostic BCG test were carried out on each patient simultaneously. Response of the patient to each test was recorded on a proforma. Both the tests were compared regarding their positivity.

RESULTS

Both Mantoux's and BCG tests were found negative in about 26% cases, and positive in about 40% cases. BCG alone was positive in 34% cases in which Mantoux's test was negative.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that in paediatric age group, diagnostic BCG test has a definite edge over Mantoux's test in diagnosis of tuberculosis.