HLA-B27 Test Price in Bangladesh – 2025 Updated
The HLA-B27 test is a vital blood test used to detect the HLA-B27 protein, which is linked to autoimmune diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. This test is often recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms like chronic back pain, joint stiffness, or eye inflammation (uveitis). In Bangladesh, the HLA-B27 test price in Bangladesh typically ranges from 800 to 4000 BDT, depending on whether you choose a government or private facility. This article provides a detailed overview of the test, including its purpose, preparation, pricing at government and private hospitals, result interpretation, and answers to common questions, helping you make informed healthcare decisions.
What is a HLA-B27 Test?
The HLA-B27 test identifies the presence of the HLA-B27 antigen, a protein found on the surface of white blood cells. This antigen is encoded by a gene and plays a role in the immune system by distinguishing healthy cells from foreign substances. However, in some cases, the presence of HLA-B27 can lead to immune system dysfunction, causing it to attack healthy cells, which may result in autoimmune diseases.
- What it measures: The test determines whether the HLA-B27 antigen is present in your blood.
- Clinical significance: The HLA-B27 antigen is strongly associated with:
- Ankylosing spondylitis: A type of arthritis affecting the spine, found in about 89% of patients.
- Reactive arthritis: Joint inflammation triggered by infections.
- Psoriatic arthritis: Joint issues linked to psoriasis.
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Arthritis in children.
- Alternative names: The test is also known as HLA-B27 typing or HLA-B27 genotyping.
- Limitations: While a positive result increases the likelihood of these conditions, it is not a definitive diagnosis. Only about 1-8% of the general population carries HLA-B27, and not all develop autoimmune diseases.
The test is typically used in conjunction with clinical evaluations and imaging studies to confirm a diagnosis.
When is a HLA-B27 Test Recommended?
The HLA-B27 test is recommended when a doctor suspects an autoimmune condition based on specific symptoms or medical history. It is not used for routine screening but rather for targeted diagnosis in symptomatic individuals.
- Symptoms prompting the test:
- Persistent lower back pain or stiffness, especially in the morning.
- Pain or swelling in joints like the hips, knees, or heels.
- Eye inflammation (uveitis), causing pain or redness.
- Family history of autoimmune diseases.
- Conditions warranting the test:
- Suspected ankylosing spondylitis.
- Reactive arthritis, often following infections like urinary or gastrointestinal infections.
- Psoriatic arthritis or juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
- Diagnostic role: The test helps confirm a diagnosis when combined with clinical symptoms and imaging (e.g., X-rays or MRIs). It is not used for monitoring disease progression but is critical for initial risk assessment.
Doctors use the results to guide further diagnostic steps, ensuring timely intervention for autoimmune conditions.
HLA-B27 Test Preparation
The HLA-B27 test is straightforward and requires minimal preparation, making it convenient for patients.
- Fasting requirements: No fasting is needed; you can eat and drink normally.
- Medications: No medications are known to significantly affect the test results, but inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking.
- Sample collection process: A healthcare professional draws a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The process takes only a few minutes and involves minimal discomfort.
- Test duration: The blood draw itself is quick, typically completed in 5-10 minutes. Results are usually available within a few days, depending on the laboratory.
Always follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or testing facility to ensure accurate results.
HLA-B27 Test Price List in Government Hospitals in Bangladesh
Government hospitals in Bangladesh offer medical tests at lower costs compared to private facilities, making them a cost-effective option for many patients. However, specific pricing for the HLA-B27 test is limited in available data. Below is a table of major government hospitals, with pricing information where available as of June 2025.
| Hospital Name | Location | HLA-B27 Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) | Shahbag, Dhaka | 800 | +880-02-966687, +880-02-8619115 |
| Dhaka Medical College Hospital | Dhaka | Not listed | +880-02-55165088 |
| Mymensingh Medical College Hospital | Mymensingh | Not listed | +880-091-66063 |
| Chittagong Medical College Hospital | Chittagong | Not listed | +880-031-619250 |
| Sir Salimullah Medical College Mitford Hospital | Dhaka | Not listed | +880-02-7319123 |
| Rajshahi Medical College Hospital | Rajshahi | Not listed | +880-0721-772150 |
| Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital | Sylhet | Not listed | +880-0821-713487 |
Note: The price for BSMMU is sourced from Pedimedicine.com. For other government hospitals, HLA-B27 test availability and pricing are not readily available online. Patients are advised to contact these hospitals directly to confirm test availability and current costs, as prices may vary based on location and facility.
HLA-B27 Test Price List in Private Hospitals in Bangladesh
Private hospitals and diagnostic centers in Bangladesh offer the HLA-B27 test with advanced technology and faster result turnaround times, though at higher costs than government facilities. Below is a table of private facilities offering the test, with pricing information where available as of June 2025.
| Hospital/Diagnostic Center | Location | HLA-B27 Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ibn Sina Diagnostic & Consultation Center | Dhanmondi, Dhaka | 3000-4000 (Discounted: 3000, Original: 4000) | 10615 |
| Popular Diagnostic Centre Ltd. | Dhanmondi, Dhaka | 4000 | 09666 787801 |
| National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital | Agargaon, Dhaka | 1500 | +88029137305 |
| Square Hospital | Dhaka | Not listed | +880-02-8144400 |
| Enam Medical College Hospital | Savar, Dhaka | Not listed | +880-02-7745245 |
| DNA Solution Ltd. | Dhaka | Not listed | +880-2-48322353 |
| Thyrocare Bangladesh | Dhaka | Not listed | +8809666737373 |
| Labaid Diagnostic Centre | Dhaka | Not listed | +880-2-58610793 |
Note: Prices for Ibn Sina, Popular Diagnostic, and Neuroscience Hospital are sourced from provided data. Other facilities like Square Hospital and Enam Medical College Hospital offer the test, but specific pricing is not available online. Contact these centers directly for current pricing. For more details, visit HospitalBangla.com.
Understanding HLA-B27 Test Results
Interpreting HLA-B27 test results requires understanding their implications in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
- Normal range:
- Negative: The HLA-B27 antigen is not detected, suggesting a lower likelihood of associated autoimmune diseases.
- Positive: The HLA-B27 antigen is present, indicating an increased risk of autoimmune conditions.
- What abnormal results might indicate:
- A positive result suggests a higher risk of diseases like ankylosing spondylitis (89% of patients are HLA-B27 positive), reactive arthritis, or psoriatic arthritis. However, it is not a definitive diagnosis, as some healthy individuals carry the antigen without developing these conditions.
- A negative result reduces the likelihood of these diseases but does not rule them out, as some patients with these conditions may test negative.
- Factors affecting results:
- Ethnicity: HLA-B27 prevalence varies (e.g., 6-8% in Caucasians, 3-4% in African-Americans, 1% in Asians).
- Sample quality: Improper storage or handling of the blood sample can affect accuracy.
- When to consult a doctor: If you test positive and have symptoms like back pain or joint inflammation, consult a rheumatologist for further evaluation. Even with a negative result, persistent symptoms warrant additional tests to explore other causes.
Always discuss your results with a healthcare provider to ensure accurate interpretation and appropriate next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HLA-B27 test used for?
The test detects the HLA-B27 protein, helping diagnose autoimmune diseases like ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.
How accurate is the HLA-B27 test?
The test is highly accurate for detecting the HLA-B27 antigen but is not a standalone diagnostic tool. It must be interpreted with clinical symptoms.
How long does it take to get HLA-B27 test results?
Results are typically available within 2-5 days, depending on the laboratory’s processing time.
Is the HLA-B27 test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance plan. Many plans cover the test if ordered for diagnostic purposes, but check with your provider.
How often should the HLA-B27 test be done?
The test is typically a one-time diagnostic tool, not used for regular monitoring, as the presence of HLA-B27 does not change over time.
How does the HLA-B27 test differ from other arthritis tests?
Unlike tests like rheumatoid factor or anti-CCP, which detect antibodies, the HLA-B27 test identifies a genetic marker linked to specific autoimmune conditions.
Are there risks associated with the HLA-B27 test?
The test involves a simple blood draw, with minimal risks like slight pain or bruising at the puncture site.
Conclusion
The HLA-B27 test is a critical tool for identifying the risk of autoimmune diseases like ankylosing spondylitis, helping patients and doctors make informed diagnostic decisions. In Bangladesh, the HLA-B27 test price in Bangladesh varies significantly, with government hospitals like BSMMU offering it at 800 BDT, while private facilities like Ibn Sina and Popular Diagnostic charge between 1500 and 4000 BDT. Comparing prices across facilities can help you find cost-effective options without compromising quality. For accurate results and proper interpretation, consult a healthcare provider, and contact hospitals directly for the latest pricing.
