What happens if a Tuberculosis (TB) blood test is positive for the immigration medical exam?
If you receive a positive TB blood test during your immigration medical exam, it’s understandable to have concerns about your green card application. However, a positive test won’t automatically keep you from getting your green card!
The process involves a few more steps. If the test is positive, you’ll need to undergo further evaluations, which typically include a chest X-ray. This helps determine whether you have active TB or just dormant TB. If it turns out to be dormant TB, while treatment is usually recommended, it won’t prevent you from moving forward with your immigration process.
On the other hand, if the evaluation reveals that you have active TB, you will need to complete the necessary treatment before you can be cleared for travel and continue with your application. So, while a positive TB test might feel concerning, rest assured that there are clear paths to still achieving your immigration goals!
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Positive TB Test:
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A positive TB test (either skin test or blood test) indicates exposure to TB bacteria.
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It doesn't necessarily mean the person has active, contagious TB.
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Further testing is needed to determine if the infection is active or latent.
2. Latent (dormant) TB:
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Dormant TB means the bacteria are present in the body but are not causing active disease.
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The individual is not contagious.
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Treatment for dormant TB is usually recommended to prevent it from becoming active.
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Latent TB usually doesn't prevent immigration, but treatment is recommended.
3. Active TB:
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Active TB means the bacteria are multiplying and causing disease.
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Active TB is contagious and requires treatment.
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If active TB is detected during the immigration medical exam, the applicant will need to complete treatment before being cleared for travel.
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The treatment typically involves taking multiple medications for several months.
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In some cases, a waiver of inadmissibility might be needed if there are extenuating medical circumstances.
4. Required Testing:
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Chest X-ray: If the IGRA or TST is positive, a chest X-ray is the next step.
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Sputum Tests: If the chest X-ray shows signs of active TB, sputum samples may be collected for further testing.
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Clinical Exam: The civil surgeon may also conduct a clinical exam to assess symptoms and overall health.
5. Role of the Civil Surgeon:
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The civil surgeon is responsible for performing the medical examination and reporting the findings to USCIS.
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They will determine if the applicant has active TB or latent TB.
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They will also provide guidance on treatment and follow-up care.
6. Immigration Impact:
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Active TB can delay the immigration process until treatment is complete.
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Latent TB, with proper treatment, usually doesn't prevent immigration.
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The applicant is generally not deported due to TB infection if they comply with the required testing and treatment.
At Lumberton Internal Medicine Group, we pride ourselves on offering affordable prices, same-day appointments, and bilingual services in Spanish and Creole-French. We specialize in completing USCIS Form I-693 and Form N-648 for those seeking U.S. residency and citizenship.
If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out to us at 910-272-8800.
We’re here to help you every step of the way!