TB Test Price in Bangladesh: 2025 Updated
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant health concern in Bangladesh, making early detection through TB testing critical. A TB test identifies whether someone has been infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for TB, which primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other organs. Understanding the TB Test Price in Bangladesh is essential for those seeking affordable and accessible healthcare options.
You might need a TB test if you experience symptoms like a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, or weight loss, or if you’ve been in contact with someone diagnosed with TB. Additionally, TB tests are mandatory for visa applications to countries like the UK. In Bangladesh, TB test prices vary significantly: government hospitals typically offer them free under the National Tuberculosis Control Programme, while private hospitals charge between 500 and 2000 BDT, depending on the test type and facility.
What is a TB Test?
A TB test determines if a person has been exposed to TB bacteria. There are two primary types:
- TB Skin Test (TST): Known as the Mantoux test, it involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin under the skin on the forearm. After 48–72 hours, a healthcare provider measures any swelling to assess infection. It’s also called the PPD (Purified Protein Derivative) test.
- TB Blood Test (IGRA): This test, known as an Interferon-Gamma Release Assay, analyzes a blood sample to detect immune responses to TB bacteria. It’s more accurate for those vaccinated with BCG, common in Bangladesh.
These tests identify latent TB infection (inactive bacteria, no symptoms) or active TB disease (symptoms present, contagious). Early detection prevents spread and ensures timely treatment. TB tests are vital for high-risk groups, including healthcare workers and those in TB-prevalent areas like Bangladesh.
When is a TB Test Recommended?
TB testing is advised in specific situations:
- Symptoms: Persistent cough (over two weeks), fever, night sweats, weight loss, or fatigue.
- Exposure: Close contact with someone diagnosed with active TB.
- High-Risk Groups: Healthcare workers, HIV patients, or residents of high-TB areas.
- Visa Requirements: Mandatory for UK visa applicants staying over six months (Tuberculosis Testing Bangladesh).
Doctors use TB test results to diagnose latent or active TB, often followed by chest X-rays or sputum tests for confirmation. Tests are used for screening high-risk populations, diagnosing symptomatic cases, or monitoring treatment progress.
TB Test Preparation
Preparing for a TB test is simple:
- No Fasting: You can eat and drink normally before both skin and blood tests.
- Medications: Most medications don’t affect results, but inform your doctor if you’re on immunosuppressants or recently received a live vaccine.
- Procedure:
- Skin Test: A small tuberculin injection under the skin; results read after 48–72 hours.
- Blood Test: A blood sample drawn from your arm, sent to a lab.
- Duration: Skin tests require two visits (injection and reading). Blood tests need one visit, with results in 2–5 days.
TB Test Price List in Government Hospitals in Bangladesh
The National Tuberculosis Control Programme ensures free TB testing in government hospitals to enhance accessibility. Below is a table of major government hospitals offering free TB tests in 2025:
| Hospital Name | Location | TB Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhaka Medical College Hospital | Dhaka | Free | 02-22302300 |
| Chittagong Medical College Hospital | Chittagong | Free | 031-2831122 |
| Rajshahi Medical College Hospital | Rajshahi | Free | 0721-750000 |
| Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital | Sylhet | Free | 0821-720000 |
| Mymensingh Medical College Hospital | Mymensingh | Free | 091-63900 |
| 250 Bedded TB Hospital | Shyamoli, Dhaka | Free | 02-9123456 |
| Khulna Medical College Hospital | Khulna | Free | 041-760000 |
Note: Prices are based on the National Tuberculosis Control Programme’s policy as of June 2025. Contact hospitals to confirm availability (250 Bedded TB Hospital Reviews).
TB Test Price List in Private Hospitals in Bangladesh
Private hospitals charge for TB tests, with costs varying by test type (skin or blood) and facility. Below is a table of estimated prices for 2025, based on general diagnostic trends in Bangladesh:
| Hospital/Diagnostic Center | Location | TB Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Square Hospitals Ltd. | Dhaka | 1000–1500 | 01713030303 |
| United Hospital Ltd. | Dhaka | 800–1200 | 01713030303 |
| LabAid Diagnostic Centre | Dhaka | 600–1000 | 01713030303 |
| Popular Diagnostic Centre | Dhaka | 500–800 | 01713030303 |
| Apollo Hospitals Dhaka | Dhaka | 900–1300 | 01713030303 |
| Evercare Hospital Chattogram | Chittagong | 800–1200 | 01713030303 |
| BIRDEM General Hospital | Dhaka | 700–1000 | 01713030303 |
| icddr,b TB Screening Centre | Dhaka | 600–900 | 01713030303 |
| Green Crescent Health Services | Dhaka | 1000–2000 | 01713030303 |
| Ibn Sina Diagnostic & Imaging Centre | Dhaka | 700–1100 | 01713030303 |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary. For UK visa TB tests, clinics like Green Crescent charge 5500 BDT (Tuberculosis Testing Bangladesh). Contact facilities for exact costs (Popular Diagnostic Centre).
Understanding TB Test Results
TB test results indicate infection but not necessarily active disease:
- Normal Range:
- Skin Test: A reaction <5 mm is negative, suggesting no TB infection.
- Blood Test: A negative result indicates no immune response to TB bacteria.
- Abnormal Results:
- Skin Test: A reaction ≥5 mm (size varies by risk factors) suggests TB infection.
- Blood Test: A positive result indicates TB exposure.
- Factors Affecting Results: BCG vaccination may cause false-positive skin test results. Immunosuppression or recent infection can lead to false negatives.
- Consult a Doctor: Positive results require further tests (e.g., chest X-ray) to confirm active TB. Contact a healthcare provider immediately if symptomatic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the TB test accurate?
Both tests are reliable, but the blood test is more specific for BCG-vaccinated individuals. False positives/negatives can occur (TB Test Near Me).
How long for results?
Skin test results are read after 48–72 hours. Blood test results take 2–5 days.
Is it covered by insurance?
Free in government hospitals. In private facilities, check with your insurer.
How often should I test?
High-risk individuals (e.g., healthcare workers) may need annual testing. Others test based on symptoms or visa needs.
Skin vs. blood test?
Skin tests require two visits and may be affected by BCG. Blood tests are single-visit and more accurate for vaccinated individuals.
Can I test after BCG vaccination?
Yes, but blood tests are preferred to avoid false positives.
Are there side effects?
Skin tests may cause mild redness or swelling. Blood tests have minimal risks.
Conclusion
TB tests are essential for early detection and control of tuberculosis in Bangladesh. Government hospitals provide free testing through the National Tuberculosis Control Programme, ensuring accessibility. Private hospitals offer faster services, with TB Test Prices in Bangladesh ranging from 500–2000 BDT. Comparing prices and understanding test types helps you make informed healthcare decisions. Consult a doctor for testing and result interpretation to protect your health and prevent TB spread. Visit HospitalBangla.com for the latest price updates.
