PNH Confirmation Test, FLAER method Test

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare acquired stem cell disorder which is associated with periodic hemolytic events. This remediable clonal condition has been associated with thrombosis and cytopenias and is caused by the abnormal X-linked phosphatidylinositol glycan class A gene. In recent improvements in PNH diagnostics, the flow cytometry (FCM) can detect PNH cells ab about 0.01% of the total cells. Also, limitations of fluorescent inactivated aerolysin (FLAER) has been recognized for the measurement of the RBC clone. PHN confirmation test is done on a blood sample to detect and measure the level of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria in the blood. The PNH with FLAER flow cytometry quantifies GPI-AP-deficient blood cells by using a variety of GPI-AP markers.

No special preparation is needed by the patient before PNH confirmation test. You just need to be aware of the do’s and don’ts of the laboratory before proceeding for the test. You need to carry the prescription letter provided by the doctor. You also need to inform the doctor regarding the underlying medical conditions. You also need to inform the doctor if you are under any medications or is suffering from any sort of allergies. You can normally have your food and drink and does not need to fast unless ordered by the doctor. The doctor will provide you with specific instruction depending on the patient’s conditions.

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria is an procured hematologic disorder which is indicated by Pancytopenia, Thrombosis, Chronic Hemolytic Anemia, Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria and Myeloid Malignancies. This test can even detect partial loss of CD59 on RBC 2. Small PNH clones can also be detected in Myelodysplastic syndromes and Aplastic anemia. The patient being tested is benefited from Immunosuppressive therapy. The test is conducted on Heparinized whole blood/EDTA. The test also provides information regarding the potential difference in clone size between the red blood cells and white blood cells which may be due to recent transfusion or hemolysis.

PNH confirmation test is performed by collecting a few milliliter of the blood sample from the patient. The test can be performed at numerous sites like test centers, doctors clinic, and infirmaries. A nurse first cleans the area with a germ-killing antiseptic pad. A needle is then injected inside into the vein to collect the blood sample. The blood is collected in a small bottle and is sealed. The bottle is then sent to the research laboratories for examination for PHN.