PPD/TB Skin Testing Services in Chicago & Naperville
When it comes to health screenings, tuberculosis (TB) testing is one of the most important, especially for those working in:
- healthcare
- education
- public services
- or immigrating to the U.S.
Quick, Reliable PPD/TB Skin Testing in Naperville & Chicago.
We treat all ages; including children, and serve both individuals and employers. Our goal is to make testing simple, accurate, and fast, without the hassle.
At First Choice Immediate Care, we provide walk-in PPD/TB skin testing with:
- No appointment required
- same-day evaluations
- and on-site lab access
Right here in Naperville and Chicago.
What Is a PPD/TB Skin Test?
A PPD test (Purified Protein Derivative) is a screening tool for latent or active tuberculosis. It’s done by injecting a tiny amount of tuberculin just under the skin, typically on the forearm.
After 48–72 hours, the site is checked for a bump or swelling, which can indicate TB exposure.
How is the Test Performed?
- A small amount of PPD solution is injected under your skin using a tiny needle.
- The injection usually feels like a quick pinch.
- After the injection, a small bump will appear at the site. This is normal.
- You must return to our clinic within 2–3 days to have the area examined and your results interpreted.
How to Prepare for the Test?
You don’t need to fast or take special precautions. Just wear loose clothing that allows easy access to your forearm.
Inform our staff if:
- You’ve had a TB vaccine (BCG)
- You’ve tested positive before
- You have a weakened immune system
Our team will guide you through any necessary precautions.
Why is the Test Performed?
This test is commonly required for:
- Employment clearance (especially in healthcare, childcare, and food services)
- School or college enrollment
- Immigration medicals
- Routine health screenings
Even if you feel fine, latent TB can exist without symptoms, making regular testing vital for prevention.
TB Symptom Evaluation
If you’ve been exposed or are at higher risk, our clinic can also evaluate you for common TB symptoms, such as:
- Persistent cough (lasting more than 3 weeks)
- Fatigue and fever
- Night sweats
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Unexplained weight loss
We offer on-site chest X-rays and lab tests if further investigation is needed.
What to Expect After a PPD Test?
You can go about your day normally after the injection. Keep the site clean and avoid scratching or covering it tightly.
You’ll return to the clinic after 48–72 hours for evaluation. The provider will gently examine the test site for:
- Hardness (induration)
- Size of swelling
- Any redness (not always significant)
What Normal and Abnormal PPD Test Results Could Mean?
Normal Result:
No swelling or a minor bump = likely TB-negative.
Abnormal Result:
Significant swelling = potential TB exposure.
In either case, our team will walk you through the next steps and answer your questions in detail. If needed, we’ll refer you for additional testing or treatment.
What Are the Symptoms of Skin TB?
While skin TB (cutaneous tuberculosis) is rare, it can appear as:
- Painful ulcers or nodules
- Persistent lesions on arms, legs, or face
- Red, swollen patches that don’t heal
If our medical team suspects skin TB, we may recommend a biopsy or blood testing to confirm the diagnosis.
What Are the Symptoms of TB in a Child?
TB can look different in children and may include:
- Persistent cough
- Reduced appetite
- Weight loss or failure to thrive
- Low-grade fever or chills
- Irritability or fatigue
First Choice Immediate Care is the Best Option Because…
We combine compassionate service, extended hours, and top-tier diagnostics to give every patient peace of mind and care they can trust.
- Walk in 7 days a week.
- No appointment required
- Same-day results & follow-up support
- Modern equipment and clean facilities
- TB testing for all ages, even children
- Occupational health programs are available
FAQS About PPD/TB Skin Testing at Urgent Care
How fast is the PPD test?
The injection takes less than a minute. Results are typically read 48 to 72 hours after the test is placed.
Does a PPD skin test hurt?
You may feel a slight pinch during the injection, but it’s generally painless and quick.
What is the immediate test for TB?
A TB blood test (IGRA) provides faster results and does not require a return visit. It may be used in certain cases instead of a skin test.
What is the waiting period for a TB skin test?
You must return to the clinic within 2 to 3 days to have your skin reaction measured.
How long after TB exposure is PPD positive?
It may take 2 to 12 weeks after exposure for your body to react to a PPD test.
What if the PPD test is positive?
A positive result means you’ve been exposed to TB. Additional testing, like a chest X-ray or TB blood test, is done to check for active or latent TB.
How to check TB at home?
TB cannot be diagnosed at home. You need a skin test or blood test performed at a medical clinic for accurate results.
Can TB be detected immediately?
Active TB symptoms may be noticed, but definitive detection requires a medical exam, lab testing, or imaging.
What size is a positive PPD test?
Induration (swelling) of 5mm to 15mm or more may be considered positive, depending on your risk factors.
What is 2 2-step PPD?
The 2-step TB test involves getting two PPD tests about 1 to 3 weeks apart. It’s commonly used for healthcare or long-term care workers to rule out false negatives.
Does a chest X-ray show latent TB?
No. A chest X-ray helps rule out active TB, but latent TB usually does not show on imaging.
How long do TB blood test results take?
TB blood test (IGRA) results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours.
Is the PPD skin test accurate?
Yes, but it may give false positives (e.g., if you had the BCG vaccine) or false negatives in certain conditions. That’s why clinical context is important.
How many days apart are 2-step PPD tests?
The second test is usually done 7 to 21 days after the first one.
Can TB be cured?
Yes. Both active and latent TB can be successfully treated with a prescribed course of antibiotics.
Urgent Care with Skin Test Near you
Looking for reliable urgent care with Skin Testing services near you?
Visit First Choice Immediate Care in:
- Chicago, IL
- Naperville, IL
We offer convenient locations, modern equipment, and a caring team—ready when you are.
We offer pediatric TB testing in both Naperville and Chicago; no referral needed. Same-day visits are always welcome.
We make testing fast, friendly, and reliable.
Contact us
Same-day appointments
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Serving local businesses for over the years with occupational health services.
1st Choice Immediate Care
Fast, Professional, Reliable lab tests & other occupational health services.
We are your trusted partner in keeping your workforce healthy and your business compliant in Chicago & Naperville.
