Is a skin test required for tetanus injection?

Nov 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

In general, whether a skin test is required before receiving a tetanus shot depends on the specific type of tetanus injection being administered. Before receiving the tetanus vaccine, individuals should inform their doctor about their personal allergy history and other health conditions so that the doctor can make an appropriate assessment. If there are any concerns or uncertainties, it is best to consult a qualified physician to determine whether a skin test is necessary.

Generally, whether a skin test is required before receiving a tetanus shot depends on the specific type of tetanus injection being administered. The detailed analysis is as follows:

When administering tetanus human immunoglobulin, a skin test is usually not required. This preparation is derived from healthy human plasma and undergoes purification, resulting in an extremely low incidence of allergic reactions. It does not contain foreign (heterologous) proteins, so even individuals with allergic constitutions do not need a pre-injection skin test and can be directly injected to achieve rapid protection.

However, a skin test is mandatory when injecting preparations other than tetanus human immunoglobulin, such as tetanus antitoxin. Tetanus antitoxin is a heterologous protein product that may easily trigger allergic reactions ranging from rashes to anaphylactic shock; a skin test helps identify potential risks in advance. Some special formulations may also have sensitizing potential, so a skin test must confirm safety before administration.

Prior to receiving a tetanus vaccine, individuals should inform their doctor about their personal allergy history and other health conditions so that the doctor can make an accurate assessment. If there are any concerns or uncertainties, it is best to consult a qualified physician to determine whether a skin test is necessary.

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