Kveim test is used for diagnosis of?
**Core Concept**
The Kveim test is a diagnostic tool used to detect a specific type of skin infection caused by a particular bacterium. It involves the intradermal injection of a suspension of infected tissue from a patient with a known diagnosis of the condition being tested for.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The Kveim test is specifically used for the diagnosis of **Mycobacterium leprae** infection, also known as leprosy. This test was developed by Norwegian physician Albert Kveim in the 1940s. The test works by injecting a small amount of infected tissue into the skin, which, if the person is infected with M. leprae, will cause a localized skin reaction. This reaction is a sign that the person has been exposed to the bacterium.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** The Mantoux test is a different diagnostic tool used to detect tuberculosis infection, not leprosy. It involves the intradermal injection of tuberculin, a substance derived from the bacteria that cause tuberculosis.
* **Option B:** The VDRL test is a diagnostic tool used to detect syphilis infection, not leprosy. It involves the detection of antibodies in the blood that are produced in response to the bacteria that cause syphilis.
* **Option C:** The Tine test is another diagnostic tool used to detect leprosy infection, but it is not as specific or sensitive as the Kveim test. It involves the intradermal injection of a suspension of M. leprae antigens.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The Kveim test is a type of skin test that can be used to diagnose leprosy, but it is not commonly used today due to the availability of more sensitive and specific diagnostic tests, such as PCR and serology.
**Correct Answer: D. Leprosy**