
PNH Advance







The PNH Advance test is a specialized blood test used to detect and confirm Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH), a rare, acquired blood disorder. It works by identifying blood cells that lack protective surface proteins, making them more likely to break down (hemolyze). This test helps doctors diagnose PNH, assess its severity, and monitor the response to treatment.









Understanding PNH Advance
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare and acquired blood disorder that causes premature destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis). It occurs due to a mutation in the PIGA gene, which results in the absence of protective GPI (glycosylphosphatidylinositol)-anchored proteins on the surface of blood cells. Without these proteins, blood cells become vulnerable to attack by the immune system.
The PNH Advance is a specialized flow cytometry-based blood test used to detect and confirm the presence of PNH. This advanced technique analyzes blood cells to identify those lacking the protective proteins CD55 and CD59 on their surface. Measuring the absence or deficiency of these proteins helps doctors determine the PNH clone size (the proportion of affected cells), assess disease severity, and monitor response to treatment.
Doctors usually recommend this test for individuals with unexplained anemia, dark urine, frequent blood clots, or bone marrow failure disorders such as aplastic anemia or myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), where PNH may coexist. Early detection plays a key role in guiding appropriate treatment and improving long-term outcomes, as untreated PNH can be life-threatening.
For this test, it is important to submit the clinical history, histopathology report, previous test results, and a doctor’s prescription at the time of sample collection. The Tata 1mg consolidated Test Requisition Form (TRF) must also be duly filled and submitted.
Lab test results may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation. Therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results.
What does PNH Advance measure?
The PNH Advance measures the presence and proportion of blood cells that lack certain protective surface proteins, specifically CD55 and CD59. These proteins normally help safeguard red blood cells from being destroyed by the immune system’s complement pathway.
Using flow cytometry, a highly sensitive laboratory technique, this test can detect even a small number of defective cells and determine the PNH clone size, which indicates the percentage of blood cells affected by the condition. A larger clone size often suggests a more severe form of the disease and helps doctors evaluate disease progression, monitor response to treatment, and assess prognosis.
In some cases, the test also analyzes various types of blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, to provide a more detailed assessment of how extensively PNH affects the blood system.





FAQs related to PNH Advance
- Brando B, Gatti A, Preijers F. Flow Cytometric Diagnosis of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria: Pearls and Pitfalls - A Critical Review Article. EJIFCC. 2019 Nov 25;30(4):355-370. PMID: 31814811; PMCID: PMC6893893. [Accesses 06 Nov. 2025]. Available From:
- Mishra P, Tripathi P, Halder R, Saxena R, Tyagi S, Mahapatra M, Pati HP. Clinico-Hematological Profile of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria in Indian Patients: FLAER Flow Cytometry Based Experience from an Indian Tertiary Care Centre. Indian J Hematol Blood Transfus. 2021 Apr;37(2):220-225. [Accesses 06 Nov. 2025]. Available From:
Other tests
- CBC (Complete Blood Count)
- CRP (C-Reactive Protein), Quantitative
- Complete Hemogram (CBC & ESR)
- ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
- Serum Ferritin
- Blood Group ABO & Rh Factor
- Hb (Hemoglobin)
- PT INR (Prothrombin Time with INR)
- HIV 1 and 2 Antibody, Rapid Screening Test
- Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV)
- CBC (Complete Blood Count)
- FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar)
- Thyroid Profile Total (T3, T4 & TSH)
- HbA1c (Glycosylated Hemoglobin)
- PPBS (Postprandial Blood Sugar)
- Lipid Profile
- Vitamin D (25-Hydroxy)
- Urine R/M (Urine Routine & Microscopy)
- Coronavirus Covid -19 test- RT PCR
- LFT (Liver Function Test)
- KFT (Kidney Function Test)
- TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive
- ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
- Uric Acid, Serum
- Vitamin B12
- CRP (C-Reactive Protein), Quantitative
- Urine C/S (Urine Culture and Sensitivity)
- Serum Electrolytes
- Serum Calcium
- Serum Creatinine
- Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar)
- KFT with Electrolytes (Kidney Function Test with Electrolytes)
- Cholesterol - Total
- Hb (Hemoglobin)
- Complete Hemogram (CBC & ESR)















