Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria (PNH) Confirmatory

• Test Name: Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria (PNH) Confirmatory Test
• Test Type: Flow cytometry-based diagnostic test
• Specimen Required: Blood sample
• Methodology: Flow cytometry to detect the presence or absence of specific cell surface proteins
• Purpose: Confirms the diagnosis of PNH by identifying deficient cell surface proteins (CD55 and CD59) on red blood cells and white blood cells

• Diagnosis: Confirms the presence of PNH in patients with hemolytic anaemia, unexplained thrombosis, or other related symptoms
• Management: Helps in planning treatment strategies for PNH patients
• Monitoring: Monitors disease progression and response to treatment
• Risk Assessment: Identifies patients at risk for complications such as thrombosis and renal failure

• Components:
  • Test kit with reagents specific for detecting CD55 and CD59 proteins
  • Instructions for blood sample collection and processing
  • Controls and calibrators to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results
• Procedure:
  • Collection of a blood sample from the patient
  • Processing and analysis of the sample using flow cytometry
  • Detailed reporting of the presence or absence of PNH cells

• Positive Result: Presence of PNH clones indicating deficiency of CD55 and CD59 on red and/or white blood cells, confirming PNH
• Negative Result: Absence of PNH clones, suggesting no PNH
• Clinical Correlation: Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical history, symptoms, and other diagnostic tests
• Thresholds: Specific cut-off values for CD55 and CD59 levels used to determine positivity

• Quantitative: Provides a percentage of PNH clones among the total cells analyzed
• Units: Results typically expressed as a percentage of PNH cells
• Reference Range: Normal range established for interpreting the levels of CD55 and CD59
• Turnaround Time: Results usually available within a few days, depending on the laboratory

Q. What is the PNH Confirmatory Test?
The PNH Confirmatory Test is a diagnostic test using flow cytometry to detect the absence of specific proteins (CD55 and CD59) on blood cells, confirming the presence of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria
 

Q. Who should undergo the PNH Confirmatory Test?
Patients with unexplained hemolytic anaemia, blood clots, or other symptoms suggestive of PNH should undergo this test for accurate diagnosis
 

Q. How is the PNH Confirmatory Test performed?
A blood sample is taken from the patient and analyzed in a laboratory using flow cytometry to detect the presence or absence of CD55 and CD59 in blood cells
 

Q. What do positive results mean on the PNH Confirmatory Test?
Positive results indicate the presence of PNH clones, confirming a diagnosis of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria
 

Q. Are there any preparations needed before taking the PNH Confirmatory Test?
No special preparations are required for this test. However, inform your doctor about any medications you are taking
 

Q. How long does it take to receive results from the PNH Confirmatory Test?
The results are typically available within a few days, depending on the laboratory's processing time
 

Q. What should be done if the PNH Confirmatory Test result is positive?
If the test is positive, your doctor will discuss appropriate treatment options and monitoring strategies to manage the condition and prevent complications