PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity

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 by FLAER- High Sensitivity test is an advanced flow cytometry-based test used to detect and measure these abnormal GPI-deficient cells in the blood. It uses FLAER (Fluorescently Labeled Aerolysin), a protein that binds specifically to GPI anchors, allowing for precise identification of PNH cells. The test evaluates various cell types, including red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), and platelets, using a panel of markers such as CD14, CD15, CD33, CD45, CD64, CD24, CD59, and CD235a, alongside WBC FLAER.

This high-sensitivity version of the test can detect even very small populations (as low as 0.01%) of PNH cells, making it invaluable for early detection, disease monitoring, and assessing treatment response.

Doctors may recommend this test for individuals with unexplained anemia, dark urine (especially in the morning), shortness of breath, persistent fatigue, or unusual blood clots. It is also useful in patients with bone marrow failure syndromes like aplastic anemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), conditions that can coexist with or progress to PNH.

For this test, it is important to submit the clinical history, 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 out 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.