ERCP Test Price in Bangladesh: 2025 Updated
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a vital medical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. By inserting a flexible endoscope through the mouth to the small intestine and using X-rays with a contrast dye, doctors can identify issues like gallstones, tumors, or strictures and perform interventions such as stone removal or stent placement. In Bangladesh, the ERCP test price in Bangladesh typically ranges from 10,000 to 40,000 BDT in private hospitals, while government facilities offer lower, subsidized rates, though exact prices may vary.
What is an ERCP Test?
ERCP, or Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography, combines endoscopy and fluoroscopy to examine the bile ducts, pancreatic duct, and gallbladder. A flexible tube with a camera, called an endoscope, is passed through the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and into the duodenum. A dye is injected into the ducts to make them visible on X-rays, providing detailed images.
Clinical Significance
ERCP is used to:
- Diagnose blockages, such as gallstones or tumors, in the bile or pancreatic ducts.
- Identify causes of jaundice or abnormal liver function tests.
- Detect chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic pseudocysts.
- Perform therapeutic procedures like removing gallstones, placing stents, or dilating strictures.
Medical Conditions Requiring ERCP
ERCP is often recommended for:
- Gallstones lodged in the bile ducts.
- Bile duct strictures or tumors.
- Chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer.
- Unexplained abdominal pain or jaundice.
Alternative Names
ERCP may also be referred to as:
- Endoscopic cholangiopancreatography.
- Bile duct endoscopy.
- Pancreatic duct endoscopy.
When is an ERCP Test Recommended?
ERCP is typically advised when less invasive imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs, fail to provide clear answers. It is used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, making it a versatile tool for gastroenterologists.
Symptoms and Conditions
Doctors may recommend ERCP for:
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin or eyes, often due to bile duct obstruction.
- Abdominal Pain: Persistent pain, especially in the upper right abdomen.
- Abnormal Liver Tests: Elevated liver enzymes suggesting bile duct issues.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, acute or chronic.
- Suspected Tumors: To investigate masses in the bile ducts or pancreas.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Use
ERCP results help doctors:
- Confirm diagnoses of gallstones, strictures, or tumors.
- Plan treatments, such as stent placement or stone removal.
- Perform biopsies to test for cancerous cells.
ERCP is primarily used for diagnosis and treatment rather than routine screening, as it carries some risks, such as pancreatitis or infection.
ERCP Test Preparation
Proper preparation is crucial for a safe and effective ERCP procedure. Here’s what you need to know:
Fasting Requirements
- Patients must fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure to ensure an empty stomach, reducing the risk of complications.
- Clear liquids may be allowed up to 2 hours before, but confirm with your doctor.
Medications
- Inform your doctor about all medications, especially blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin), which may need to be paused to prevent bleeding.
- Medications for diabetes or other conditions may require adjustment.
Sample Collection Process
- ERCP is performed under sedation or general anesthesia in a hospital setting.
- The endoscope is inserted through the mouth to the duodenum, where a small tube injects dye into the bile or pancreatic ducts.
- X-rays are taken to visualize the ducts, and therapeutic procedures may be performed if needed.
Duration
- The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether interventions like stone removal are required.
- Patients may need to stay in the hospital for a few hours post-procedure for recovery from sedation.
ERCP Test Price List in Government Hospitals in Bangladesh
Government hospitals in Bangladesh, such as Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), offer ERCP at subsidized rates, making it more affordable than private facilities. However, specific pricing for ERCP is not widely published online, and costs may vary based on the patient’s status (e.g., general or VIP ward). Below is a table with estimated information, but patients should contact hospitals directly for accurate 2025 pricing.
| Hospital Name | Location | ERCP Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) | Dhaka | Subsidized, contact for details | Contact DMCH |
| Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) | Dhaka | Subsidized, contact for details | Contact BSMMU |
| Chittagong Medical College Hospital | Chittagong | Subsidized, contact for details | Contact CMCH |
| Rajshahi Medical College Hospital | Rajshahi | Subsidized, contact for details | Contact RMCH |
| Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital | Sylhet | Subsidized, contact for details | Contact SOMCH |
| Barisal Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital | Barisal | Subsidized, contact for details | Contact SBMCH |
| Mymensingh Medical College Hospital | Mymensingh | Subsidized, contact for details | Contact MMCH |
Note: Prices in government hospitals are generally lower than in private facilities due to government subsidies. Exact costs for 2025 are not available in public sources, so contacting the hospital is recommended.
ERCP Test Price List in Private Hospitals in Bangladesh
Private hospitals and diagnostic centers in Bangladesh offer ERCP with prices varying based on the procedure type (diagnostic or therapeutic) and the facility’s reputation. Below is a table based on data from provided sources, supplemented with general trends for 2025.
| Hospital/Diagnostic Center | Location | ERCP Diagnostic Price (BDT) | ERCP with Procedure Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Popular Diagnostic Centre | Dhaka | 10,000 – 18,000 | 18,000 – 40,000 | Contact Popular |
| Neuroscience Hospital | Dhaka | 10,000 – 18,000 | 18,000 – 40,000 | Contact Neuroscience |
| Ibn Sina Hospital | Dhaka | 9,000 – 15,000 (estimated) | 18,000 – 35,000 (estimated) | Contact Ibn Sina |
| Square Hospitals | Dhaka | 12,000 – 20,000 (estimated) | 20,000 – 45,000 (estimated) | Contact Square |
| United Hospital | Dhaka | 12,000 – 20,000 (estimated) | 20,000 – 45,000 (estimated) | Contact United |
| Labaid Hospital | Dhaka | 10,000 – 18,000 (estimated) | 18,000 – 40,000 (estimated) | Contact Labaid |
| Evercare Hospital | Dhaka | 15,000 – 25,000 (estimated) | 25,000 – 50,000 (estimated) | Contact Evercare |
| Bangladesh Specialized Hospital | Dhaka | 12,000 – 20,000 (estimated) | 20,000 – 45,000 (estimated) | Contact BSH |
| National Hospital Chittagong | Chittagong | 10,000 – 18,000 (estimated) | 18,000 – 40,000 (estimated) | Contact National |
| Apollo Hospital Dhaka | Dhaka | 15,000 – 25,000 (estimated) | 25,000 – 50,000 (estimated) | Contact Apollo |
Note: Prices for Popular Diagnostic Centre and Neuroscience Hospital are sourced from provided data as of 2025. Other prices are estimated based on market trends and may vary. Contact hospitals for precise pricing.
Understanding ERCP Test Results
ERCP results are interpreted by a gastroenterologist or hepatologist, providing insights into the health of the bile and pancreatic ducts.
Normal Range
- Normal Results: Clear bile and pancreatic ducts with no blockages, stones, or abnormal growths.
- Visualization: Ducts appear patent (open) with normal flow of contrast dye on X-rays.
Abnormal Results
- Blockages: Gallstones or tumors obstructing the ducts.
- Strictures: Narrowing of the ducts, often due to inflammation or scarring.
- Tumors: Abnormal growths that may indicate cancer.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation or pseudocysts in the pancreas.
Factors Affecting Results
- Air Bubbles: Can mimic stones, leading to misinterpretation.
- Incomplete Dye Filling: May obscure parts of the ducts.
- Patient Movement: Can affect image clarity during X-rays.
When to Consult a Doctor
- Discuss results with your doctor immediately if abnormalities are found, as they may indicate serious conditions requiring further treatment.
- Follow-up tests or procedures may be needed to confirm findings or monitor conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is an ERCP test?
ERCP is highly accurate for visualizing bile and pancreatic ducts, with a success rate of over 90% for diagnosing obstructions. However, risks like pancreatitis (3-5% chance) may affect its use.
How long does it take to get ERCP results?
Results are typically available immediately after the procedure, as the doctor can view the ducts in real-time. Biopsy results, if taken, may take a few days.
Is ERCP covered by insurance in Bangladesh?
Coverage varies by insurance provider. Some private insurance plans may cover ERCP, but patients should confirm with their insurer, as out-of-pocket costs are common.
How often should an ERCP be done?
ERCP is not a routine test and is performed only when medically necessary, typically once for diagnosis or treatment. Follow-up ERCPs may be needed for ongoing issues.
How does ERCP differ from MRI or CT scans?
Unlike non-invasive MRI or CT scans, ERCP allows for both diagnosis and treatment (e.g., stone removal). It’s more invasive but provides direct intervention capabilities.
Are there risks associated with ERCP?
Risks include pancreatitis, infection, bleeding, or perforation (rare, <1%). Discuss these with your doctor to weigh benefits against risks.
Can ERCP be done in outpatient settings?
Yes, ERCP is often an outpatient procedure, but patients may need a short hospital stay for recovery or if complications arise.
Conclusion
ERCP is a critical procedure for diagnosing and treating conditions of the bile and pancreatic ducts, offering both diagnostic clarity and therapeutic solutions. In Bangladesh, the ERCP test price in Bangladesh varies, with private hospitals charging 10,000–40,000 BDT and government facilities offering lower rates. Comparing prices across hospitals can help patients find cost-effective options. For accurate pricing and to determine if ERCP is right for you, consult a gastroenterologist and contact trusted hospitals.
