Testing for Tuberculosis | Arthritis Information

 

How often do you get tested for TB at your RD?
Shouldn't we be tested yearly when we are on Dmards? I have a doctor appointment tomorrow and I am going to ask for a test. I was tested only on my first visit a few years ago and that was it.

Does anyone have an opinion?

Not in the past but at my last visit in Dec my RD said they are now testing yearly for TB and there's a new blood test for TB.  I have not done it yet but will soon.

Alan

My RD tested me before I started Enbrel, but he didn't say anything about yearly testing. 

Why would they need to test yearly?

Kweenb

 I think you are much more suceptable to TB if you are on a DMARD. Thinkthinn39460.4036689815I thought they tested before going on the drugs because if you have TB or have been exposed to TB and it's dormant, the drug could "wake it up." I was only tested once, but it hasn't been a year yet so I really don't know. Because of traveling and living in Mexico for part of the year I'm tested yearly, if I've been knowlingly exposed then I need to contact my RD or internist.  Mrs. A. I was told the same reason for testing prior to starting biologics, if it's dormant the meds could activate the disease.  LindyI was tested about a year and a half ago and then a couple months ago.  I think they like yearly cuz of what drugs do.  Your Rhummy should be able to tell you.  I know if you are on biologics that some doctors do it yearly to make sure your drugs aren't causing it.I haven been on Humira for 2 1/2 years-only tested before I started it.   I wonder if rates are high in your area of people showing positive for TB.  I hope I don't have to do this. It is hard to get out of work, get the RD's office, get through the traffic and get back to work.  The only time my Dr. asked for a test wasbprior to starting the biologic drugs and he never misses any needed tests.I think if you are on Humira you should get tested regularly for TB. I have a friend who started on Humira
early last year from memory and nearly died in hospital.
She had TB on her spine - she used to be a nurse so presume that is where she picked it up.I was only tested before starting Humira. To my knowledge I'd never been tested in my RD's office before.Well, I just got back from the doctor and he said it wasnt needed. Especially since I just had a CT scan and am getting another in April.

Still ,I think we should be tested every year. Next year we will be talking about this again. I am on enbrel not Humira. But I think it's all the same with Biologics.
Thank you all for your replies.

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