What is a tuberculosis screening?
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that most commonly affects the lungs and lymph glands. It may exist as an active disease with clinical symptoms, or as a latent infection with no symptoms present.
TB screening is designed to detect the suspected presence of active pulmonary TB, and is typically required for those applying to travel to the UK for over 6 months from a country with a high TB incidence. We offer a full range of TB services, including contact screening, port of entry screening and Public Health England referrals, with results provided alongside clear guidance on next steps.
Our respiratory specialists provide tuberculosis screening at St Thomas’ Hospital, home to our world-class respiratory medicine services.
Experts in respiratory screenings
Our specialist respiratory services include:
- short-notice appointments in as little as 24 hours
- fast and accurate diagnosis
- quick access to treatment
Private tuberculosis screening London
TB is an infection which can affect any organ, but most commonly affects the lungs and lymph glands. It is a notifiable disease and requires management by specialist TB services.
We provide a range of services relating to the investigation and management of TB, including:
- TB contact screening
- port of entry screening
- Public Health England referrals
TB screening is available for adults in the UK over 16 years of age.
Preparing for tuberculosis screening
Sputum sample
You will be asked to provide a sputum sample early morning on three consecutive days. This involves coughing to give a sample. You will visit the clinic for approximately 15 minutes and the sample will be collected by a respiratory nurse.
Use of induced sputum
If you have difficulty producing sputum, you will be given a nebuliser, which will help to stimulate the production of sputum. This test may take about an hour and is also required on three consecutive days, early morning. Please do not eat or drink for 2 hours before the test.
Lateral flow test
You may be asked to carry out a lateral flow test on the day of your appointment.
If you have any questions about preparing for your TB screening, contact our team.
Test results and outcome of screening
Test results may take up to 8 weeks.
If your test result is negative, you will be issued with a clearance certificate (valid for 6 months from the date of the chest X-ray or initial medical assessment).
If your test result is positive (Mycobacterium Tuberculosis is detected in your pleural fluid), you will be referred to a specialist who will discuss your results and refer you for ongoing urgent medical care.
To book your test or ask any additional questions, please get in touch.
Tuberculosis testing costs
How much is a tuberculosis test in the UK? |
|
Non-induced sputum test£990 (£330 per test) |
Induced sputum test£1,350 (£450 per test) |
Reviewed regularly to reflect clinical best practice
Last reviewed: 19 June 2026
Locations
Our tuberculosis screening service is available at the following location:
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