Tuberculin is the name originally given by Koch in 1890 to a preparation derived from the tubercle bacillus, or Mycobacterium tuberculosis as it is now known, and intended for the diagnosis or treatment of TUBERCULOSIS.
n. a protein extract from cultures of tubercle bacilli, used to test whether a person has suffered from or been in contact with tuberculosis. In the Mantoux test a quantity of tuberculin is injected beneath the skin and a patch of inflammation appearing in the next 48–72 hours is regarded as a positive reaction, meaning that a degree of immunity is present.
Skin tests used to determine whether or not a person has been exposed to the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. Tuberculin tests are carried out for diagnosis of tuberculosis, and before BCG vaccination. A small amount of tuberculin (purified protein from the bacteria) is injected into the skin. A few days later, the skin reaction, if any, is noted. A reaction indicates previous exposure.... tuberculin tests
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