###Human: Why Mantoux test is advised for cough and cold? ###Assistant: Hi. Recurrent episodes of cough and cold occur when the child has decreased immunity due to some illness or it could be a symptom of tuberculosis. Mantoux test of more than 10x10 mm is suggestive of tuberculosis. In your child, it is 18x16 mm which is strongly positive. In tuberculosis, the symptoms are weight loss or poor weight gain, persistent cough and low-grade fever. The confirmation tests are positive Mantoux test, increased ESR level, and x-ray may or may not show patches. Usually, a history of tuberculosis contact is also present. Going by symptoms in your child, like recurrent cough and cold, weight is around 12 kg which is less for her age with positive Mantoux test is suggestive of tuberculosis. In tuberculosis, treatment is continued for six months. Initially, a combination of Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Pyrazinamide, and Ethambutol is given for two months which is changed to Isoniazid and Rifampicin for four months. Your doctor has given Rifacept Kid-3 tablet which contains Isoniazid, Rifampicin, and Pyrazinamide but no Ethambutol. In my opinion, Akurit-4 should be started which has Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Pyrazinamide, and Ethambutol, this should be given for two months after which drug should be changed to a combination of Isoniazid and Rifampicin. You should give the drug of tuberculosis regularly; tuberculosis is a treatable disease so there is no need to panic.