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Private Mantoux Skin Test

Private Mantoux Skin Test in London – £130

The Blackheath Clinic provides private Mantoux skin testing for tuberculosis at our doctor-led clinic in southeast London.

The Mantoux test, also known as a tuberculin skin test or TB skin test, involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin into the skin of the forearm. The injection site is then examined 48 to 72 hours later.

Price: £130, including administration of the test and the follow-up appointment to read the result.

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What Is a Mantoux Test?

A Mantoux test is a skin test used to look for evidence that your immune system has previously encountered the bacteria that cause tuberculosis.

It may also be called:
  • A tuberculin skin test
  • A TB skin test
  • A TST
  • A PPD test
  • A Mantoux TB test

The test is commonly used before BCG vaccination and may also be required for work, education, occupational health or following possible exposure to TB.

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How Much Does a Private Mantoux Test Cost?

A private Mantoux test at The Blackheath Clinic costs £130.

The price includes:
  • Administration of the Mantoux skin test
  • A second appointment 48 to 72 hours later
  • Examination and measurement of the injection site
  • Documentation of the result
  • Clinical guidance if further assessment is required

It is essential that you return within the correct time period. If the test is not read 48 to 72 hours after administration, it may need to be repeated.

The Blackheath Clinic
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What Happens During the Test?

A small amount of tuberculin is injected just beneath the skin of the forearm. This usually produces a small, raised area immediately after the injection.

You must return to the clinic 48 to 72 hours later. The doctor will examine the site and measure any firm swelling that has developed.

Redness alone does not determine the result. The result is based on the size of the firm, raised area and is interpreted alongside your medical history and risk of TB exposure.

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Who May Need a Mantoux Test?

You may need a Mantoux test if:
  • You require screening before BCG vaccination
  • You need TB screening for work or occupational health
  • You are beginning a healthcare or educational placement
  • You have been in close contact with someone who has TB
  • You have lived in a country where TB is more common
  • An employer, university or healthcare provider has requested a TB skin test

Please bring any relevant forms, previous TB test results and your BCG vaccination history.

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Our Patient Review

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Jane Apple C.
3 months ago
I cannot thank Dr Mac Sweeney enough for the care and support he gave my husband when he became seriously ill while we were away from home in London.
I was understandably very worried and was able to book an appointment within just a couple of hours. From the moment we met him, Dr Mac Sweeney was kind, reassuring, professional and genuinely caring. He took the time to listen, explained everything clearly, and made us feel that my husband was in very safe hands.
What impressed me most was that his care did not stop when we left the consultation. He followed up on several occasions to check on my husband's progress, prescribed more medicine and even went out of his way to provide a letter for our insurance company, which was incredibly helpful.
In a world where good service can sometimes feel hard to find, Dr Mac Sweeney demonstrated a level of compassion and personal attention that was truly exceptional. The fee was also very reasonable, especially given the time, care and support we received.
I would wholeheartedly recommend Dr Mac Sweeney to anyone needing medical assistance and will always be grateful for the kindness he showed to both of us. If I lived in London I would most certainly subscribe to his membership scheme so he could deal with all my family's medical needs.
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Claudia W.
3 months ago
Excellent professional service, thank you for the scan report and the pictures (and the photo frame!)
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Paul G.
3 months ago
I recently visited The Blackheath Clinic and had a great experience.

The clinic has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, with a fresh, calming scent that immediately creates a welcoming environment. Everything was explained clearly and professionally, making the whole experience completely stress-free.

I particularly appreciated the expert advice and felt comfortable throughout. I would highly recommend The Blackheath Clinic to anyone looking for a professional, patient-focused service.
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S S.
4 months ago
We had a wonderful experience with Lydia at the Blackheath Clinic for a 3D/4D scan of our baby. She knew exactly what to do to help get our baby in a good position for us to see his face and we were blown away by the photos she gave us. A really moving experience in a beautiful, calm clinic
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gareth S.
5 months ago
This is healthcare as it should be delivered. If life has left you weary and nostalgic for days gone by, book your next GP appointment at Blackheath Clinic.
As I entered the tastefully curated space, I encountered one of the rarest of things: a polite, smiling and genuinely welcoming receptionist. In fact, she was so warm and courteous that I briefly wondered whether I had wandered into an upmarket spa by mistake.
Then I met Dr Sweeney. He was charming, courteous, friendly and thoroughly professional, with the kind of bedside manner that reminds you what general practice can be at its best: attentive, humane and quietly confident. He came across as someone who takes real pride in his work and genuinely cares for his patients.
The whole experience felt like stepping back into a time when patients were warmly received and doctors truly doctored. As I was leaving, Dr Sweeney mentioned that he was off on a home visit. A GP doing a home visit in 2026? I was so astonished I nearly needed examining all over again.
Join this practice quickly before word gets out and the list fills up. This is care delivered by people who genuinely care, and that feels all too rare these days
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Stacey E.
7 months ago
I had such a wonderful experience with Dr Micha Plugaru. From the moment I walked in, she made me feel completely at ease. She is incredibly professional, kind, and genuinely caring, which made the whole experience so comfortable and reassuring.

I had lip filler and RRS Long Lasting skin boosters, and she took the time to explain everything clearly, answer all my questions, and ensure I felt confident about the treatments. Her attention to detail and gentle approach really stood out, and I couldn’t be happier with the results.

Dr Micha Plugaru truly combines expertise with a warm, personal touch. I would highly recommend her to anyone considering aesthetic treatments — you’re in the safest and most caring hands.
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How Should I Care for the Test Site?

After the injection:

  • Keep the area clean
  • Do not scratch or rub the site
  • Do not cover it with a plaster
  • Avoid applying creams or ointments
  • You may wash and shower normally
  • Return within 48 to 72 hours for the test to be read
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What Do the Results Mean?

A negative result generally means that no significant skin reaction was detected.
A positive result suggests that your immune system has previously encountered TB bacteria. It does not necessarily mean that you have active or infectious tuberculosis.
A positive result may require further assessment, such as a TBQ blood test, symptom review, chest X-ray or referral to a specialist TB service.

Mantoux Test or TBQ Blood Test?

The Mantoux test is performed on the skin and requires two appointments. Its result can be affected by previous BCG vaccination.
The TBQ blood test, also known as a QuantiFERON or IGRA test, requires a blood sample, is completed in one visit and is not affected by previous BCG vaccination.
If an organisation has requested TB screening, check whether it requires a specific type of test before booking.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Mantoux test hurt?

The test involves a small injection into the skin of the forearm. Most people experience only brief, mild discomfort.

Why do I need to return after the injection?

The injection site must be examined and measured 48 to 72 hours later. It cannot be interpreted accurately immediately after administration.

Can I have a shower after a Mantoux test?

Yes. You can wash and shower normally, but avoid rubbing, scratching or applying creams to the test site.

Is a positive Mantoux test a diagnosis of active TB?

No. A positive result indicates an immune response but does not distinguish between latent and active TB. Further assessment may be required.

Can previous BCG vaccination affect the result?

Yes. Previous BCG vaccination can sometimes contribute to a positive skin reaction. Your vaccination history will be considered when interpreting the test.

Can I use the result for work or university?

We can document your result. Please check whether your employer, university or occupational-health provider requires a Mantoux test, a TBQ blood test or an additional medical report.

Book Today

Book a Private Mantoux Test in London

Private Mantoux TB skin testing is available at The Blackheath Clinic for £130.

The price includes administration of the test and the return appointment required to read the result.

Our Blackheath clinic is convenient for patients from Greenwich, Lewisham, Bromley, Eltham, Kidbrooke, Charlton, Woolwich, Lee and surrounding areas.

Blackheath Village, London SE3 · Contact us today to arrange your appointment.