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PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity

Also referred as

Rare Blood Disorder(Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria)

For men & women

Earliest reports in

120 hours

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1 test

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The PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity test is an advanced flow cytometry test that aids in diagnosing Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH), a rare blood disorder resulting from a genetic mutation that affects blood cell membranes. This test detects even tiny populations of abnormal cells, allowing early diagnosis and accurate monitoring of disease progression and treatment response.

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Understanding 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.

What does PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity measure?

The PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity test measures the presence and proportion of blood cells lacking specific surface proteins that protect them from destruction by the immune system. It helps detect the PNH clone, a population of abnormal red and white blood cells missing certain protective proteins due to a mutation in the PIGA gene.

Using flow cytometry, the test analyzes multiple markers on different blood cell types:

WBC (White Blood Cells): FLAER, CD45, CD24, CD15, CD33, CD64, and CD14
RBC (Red Blood Cells): CD59 and CD235a

These markers help identify cells deficient in glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins, a hallmark of PNH. A significant proportion of GPI-deficient cells confirms the diagnosis. The test also aids in evaluating patients with unexplained hemolysis, thrombosis, or bone marrow failure disorders like aplastic anemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

FAQs related to PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity

What is the PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity test?

It is a blood test that detects abnormal red and white blood cells (PNH clones) lacking specific protective proteins. These missing proteins make cells more likely to be destroyed by the immune system, a key feature of PNH.

When should I get the {test-name} test?

This test is recommended when an individual exhibits symptoms suggestive of PNH, like dark colored urine, especially in the morning, fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and a propensity for developing blood clots.

How is the PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity test performed?

A phlebotomist will clean your skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe and take blood samples from your vein using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Do I need to fast before taking the PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity test?

No fasting is required for this panel. You can schedule it at your convenience without avoiding food or water beforehand.

Is there any risk associated with the PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity test?

No, the PNH by FLAER- High Sensitivity is generally safe with minimal risks. However, you may feel slight discomfort during blood sample collection, but the chances of serious complications are extremely rare.

What is Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)?

PNH is a rare blood disorder where red blood cells break down (hemolysis) earlier than normal. This happens because of a genetic change in bone marrow stem cells that makes blood cells more sensitive to the body’s immune system.

Why is it called “nocturnal” hemoglobinuria?

The term “nocturnal” means “at night.” In some people with PNH, red blood cell breakdown happens more during sleep, leading to dark-colored urine in the morning due to released hemoglobin.

What causes PNH?

PNH is caused by an acquired mutation in the PIGA gene, which affects the production of protective proteins on blood cell surfaces. Without these proteins, blood cells become vulnerable to destruction by the immune system.