Mt Test Price in Bangladesh – 2025 Updated
The Mt Test, also known as the Mantoux test or Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), is a vital diagnostic tool used to detect infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis (TB). In Bangladesh, where TB is a significant public health concern, this test plays a crucial role in identifying individuals who may have been exposed to TB, helping to prevent its spread. The test involves injecting a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) under the skin of the forearm and checking for a reaction after 48 to 72 hours. Understanding the Mt Test price in Bangladesh is essential for those seeking affordable healthcare options, with costs typically ranging from 100 to 700 BDT in government hospitals and 263 to 800 BDT in private facilities, based on available data. This article provides a detailed overview of the test, its importance, preparation, pricing, and more to help you make informed healthcare decisions.
What is a Mt Test?
The Mt Test, or Mantoux test, is a skin test designed to detect latent or asymptomatic TB infection. A healthcare provider injects 0.1 ml of PPD tuberculin, a substance derived from TB bacteria, into the inner forearm. After 48 to 72 hours, the injection site is examined for induration—a hard, raised area. The size of the induration, measured in millimeters, determines the result:
- 0-4 mm: Negative, indicating no TB infection.
- 5-9 mm: May be positive in high-risk individuals or those with known TB exposure.
- 10 mm or more: Positive, suggesting TB infection.
The test is clinically significant because it identifies latent TB, where the bacteria are present but not causing symptoms. Early detection allows for preventive treatment to stop progression to active TB, which is contagious and can affect the lungs, kidneys, or other organs. The Mantoux test is also known as the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) or PPD test. While widely used, it’s not definitive for active TB and requires follow-up tests like chest X-rays or sputum analysis for confirmation.
When is a Mt Test Recommended?
The Mt Test is recommended in several scenarios to screen for or diagnose TB infection:
- Symptoms of Active TB: Persistent cough lasting over two weeks, fever, night sweats, chest pain, or unexplained weight loss.
- Known Exposure: Close contact with someone diagnosed with active TB, such as family members or coworkers.
- High-Risk Groups: Healthcare workers, individuals in crowded settings (e.g., prisons, shelters), or those with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS patients).
- Pre-Treatment Screening: Before starting immunosuppressive therapies, such as for autoimmune diseases, to rule out latent TB.
Doctors use the test results alongside clinical history, physical exams, and additional tests to diagnose TB or assess the need for further evaluation. The test is primarily used for screening and diagnosis, not for monitoring ongoing treatment. In Bangladesh, it’s also used for TB screening for visa applications, as noted on the GOV.UK TB testing page.
Mt Test Preparation
Preparing for the Mt Test is straightforward, making it accessible for most patients:
- Fasting: No fasting is required, and the test can be performed at any time.
- Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, especially immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., steroids), as they may affect results.
- Sample Collection Process: A small amount of PPD tuberculin is injected under the skin of the forearm using a fine needle. The procedure is quick, taking only a few minutes, and causes minimal discomfort, often described as a slight sting.
- Test Duration: The injection takes seconds, but you must return to the healthcare facility 48 to 72 hours later for the results to be read by measuring the induration.
Keep the injection site clean and dry, and avoid scratching it. If you’ve had a previous positive test or BCG vaccination, inform your doctor, as these can influence results.
Mt Test Price List in Government Hospitals in Bangladesh
Government hospitals in Bangladesh offer the Mt Test at subsidized rates, making it affordable for many. Below is a table of prices based on available data for 2025:
| Hospital Name | Location | Mt Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital (NINS) | Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Agargaon, Dhaka-1207 | 100 | +88029137305 |
| Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) | Shahbag, Dhaka-1000 | 700 | +880255165760-94 |
Note: Prices are based on provided data and may vary. Contact the hospitals directly for the latest pricing, as additional government facilities like Dhaka Medical College Hospital may offer the test but were not included in the available data. For more information, visit NINS official website or BSMMU official website.
Mt Test Price List in Private Hospitals in Bangladesh
Private hospitals and diagnostic centers typically charge higher prices due to advanced facilities and faster services. Below is a table of Mt Test prices in private facilities for 2025:
| Hospital/Diagnostic Center | Location | Mt Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ibn Sina Hospital | Dhanmondi, Dhaka | 263 (discounted) | +88029106625 |
| Epic Health Care | Panchlaish, Chattogram | 800 | +8801984499600 |
Note: Prices are based on provided data and may vary. Additional private facilities, such as Square Hospital or Popular Diagnostic Centre, may offer the Mt Test, but prices were not available in the provided data. Contact the hospitals directly or check their websites, such as Ibn Sina Trust or Epic Health Care, for updated pricing.
Understanding Mt Test Results
Interpreting Mt Test results requires professional expertise due to potential influencing factors:
- Normal Range: An induration of 0-4 mm is considered negative, indicating no TB infection.
- Abnormal Results:
- 5-9 mm: May be positive in high-risk individuals (e.g., HIV-positive, recent TB exposure).
- 10 mm or more: Positive, suggesting TB infection, either latent or active.
- What Abnormal Results Indicate: A positive result means exposure to TB bacteria but does not confirm active disease. Further tests, such as chest X-rays or sputum analysis, are needed.
- Factors Affecting Results:
- BCG Vaccination: Can cause false positives due to immune response to the vaccine.
- Immunosuppression: Conditions like HIV or medications like corticosteroids can lead to false negatives.
- Recent Live-Virus Vaccines: May temporarily suppress the immune response, affecting results.
- When to Consult a Doctor: If the test is positive or you have TB symptoms, consult a doctor immediately for further evaluation and possible treatment.
For more details on interpreting results, refer to resources like Metropolis Healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the Mt Test?
The Mt Test is generally reliable but can produce false positives (e.g., due to BCG vaccination) or false negatives (e.g., in immunocompromised individuals). It should be used alongside other tests for accurate diagnosis.
How long does it take to get Mt Test results?
Results are read 48 to 72 hours after the injection, with the healthcare provider measuring the induration immediately during the follow-up visit.
Is the Mt Test covered by insurance in Bangladesh?
Insurance coverage varies by provider and policy. Contact your insurance company to confirm if diagnostic tests like the Mt Test are covered.
How often should the Mt Test be done?
Frequency depends on risk factors. High-risk individuals, such as healthcare workers or those with TB exposure, may need annual testing, as advised by a doctor.
What’s the difference between the Mt Test and the IGRA test?
The Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) is a blood test that detects TB infection with higher specificity, especially in BCG-vaccinated individuals, as it does not cross-react with the vaccine. The Mt Test is preferred for children under 5 and is more widely available in Bangladesh.
Can the Mt Test diagnose active TB?
No, the Mt Test only indicates TB exposure. Additional tests are required to diagnose active TB disease.
Are there risks associated with the Mt Test?
The test is safe, with minimal risks. Some may experience mild discomfort or redness at the injection site, but serious reactions are rare.
Conclusion
The Mt Test is an essential tool for detecting TB infection, helping to curb the spread of this serious disease in Bangladesh. With prices ranging from 100 to 700 BDT in government hospitals and 263 to 800 BDT in private facilities, comparing costs can help you find affordable options. Always consult a healthcare provider to interpret results and determine the next steps, whether it’s preventive treatment or further testing. For the latest Mt Test price in Bangladesh, contact hospitals directly or visit trusted resources like HospitalBangla.com to stay informed and make the best healthcare decisions.
