PNH Comprehensive Panel
PNH Comprehensive Panel
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare and potentially life-threatening blood disorder caused by mutations in the PIGA gene, leading to the loss of protective proteins on the surface of red blood cells. The PNH Comprehensive Panel, including CD14, CD15, CD24, CD45, CD64, Glycophorin A by Flow Cytometry, and PNH Confirmation Test by FLAER method, helps diagnose and monitor this condition effectively.
What is the PNH Comprehensive Panel Used For?
The PNH Comprehensive Panel is used to:
- Confirm the diagnosis of PNH by detecting the absence of GPI-anchored proteins on blood cells.
- Assess the severity and progression of the disease.
- Monitor treatment response, especially in patients undergoing complement-inhibitor therapy.
- Differentiate PNH from other hemolytic anemias and bone marrow disorders such as aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes.
Which Tests are Included?
The PNH Comprehensive Panel consists of the following tests:
- CD14 by Flow Cytometry to evaluate monocyte populations.
- CD15 by Flow Cytometry to assesses granulocyte markers.
- CD24 by Flow Cytometry to identify PNH clones on granulocytes.
- CD45 by Flow Cytometry to differentiate leukocyte populations.
- CD64 by Flow Cytometry to evaluates monocyte function.
- Glycophorin A by Flow Cytometry to detect red blood cell populations.
PNH Confirmation Test by FLAER Method to confirm PNH clone presence with high sensitivity
Symptoms of PNH
Patients with PNH may exhibit a range of symptoms, including
Dark-colored urine, especially in the morning (hemoglobinuria)
Fatigue and weakness due to anemia
Shortness of breath
Blood clot formation (thrombosis)
Abdominal pain
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Kidney dysfunction
Preparation for Test
No fasting or special preparation is required before the test. Inform your physician of any medications you are taking, as certain drugs may affect test results. A simple blood draw is performed, typically from a vein in the arm
Interpretation of Test Results
The PNH Comprehensive Panel evaluates the presence or absence of GPI-anchored proteins on various blood cell lineages. Results are interpreted as follows:
- Normal: Presence of GPI-anchored proteins on red and white blood cells, indicating no PNH.
- PNH Clone Detected: Partial or complete absence of these proteins, confirming PNH. The percentage of affected cells determines disease severity.
- PNH by FLAER Method: FLAER (Fluorescent Aerolysin) is a highly sensitive method for detecting PNH clones. A positive FLAER test confirms the diagnosis
FAQs
How is the sample collected for this test?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm and analyzed using flow cytometry
How long does it take to receive the results?
Results are typically available within 3–5 days, depending on the laboratory
Is PNH a hereditary condition?
No, PNH is an acquired genetic disorder resulting from mutations in blood-forming stem cells
Can PNH be cured?
The only curative treatment for PNH is a bone marrow transplant. However, complement-inhibitor therapies such as eculizumab and ravulizumab can help manage symptoms effectively
Why is flow cytometry used for PNH testing?
Flow cytometry is the gold-standard method for detecting PNH clones because it provides high sensitivity and specificity in identifying affected blood cells
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