What does PPD stand for in medical terminology?

In medical terminology, PPD stands for Purified Protein Derivative. This term is specifically associated with the tuberculosis (TB) skin test, also known as the Mantoux test. PPD is a compound that is derived from the culture of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. When the PPD is injected intradermally, it elicits an immune response in individuals who have been exposed to the TB bacteria, allowing healthcare providers to determine whether a person has been infected with TB.

The significance of PPD lies in its role in diagnosing latent TB infection. It helps differentiate between those who have been exposed to the bacteria and those who have not, guiding further actions such as treatment or monitoring. Understanding PPD is crucial for public health measures to control and prevent the spread of tuberculosis, thus emphasizing its importance in medical practice.