CD55/CD59 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About CD55/CD59 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | PNH markers, CD55/CD59 flow cytometry, GPI-anchor deficiency test, DAF (CD55) and MIRL (CD59) expression analysis |
| Sample Type | Whole blood (EDTA tube) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 6 days |
| Recommended For | Adults and children of both sexes with suspected haemolytic anaemia, unexplained low blood counts, or unusual thrombosis |
| Price | Starting at ₹2,600 |
What Is a CD55/CD59 Test?
The CD55/CD59 test measures the levels of two protective proteins, CD55 and CD59, on the surface of blood cells. These proteins normally shield red blood cells from being destroyed by the body's own immune defences. The test is performed using a technique called flow cytometry (FCM), which analyses blood cells in detail. It is also known as the PNH markers test or the GPI-anchored protein deficiency test.
Doctors order this test when a patient shows signs of unexplained anaemia, abnormal blood counts, or unusual blood clots. A small sample of whole blood is collected into an EDTA tube for analysis.
What Does a CD55/CD59 Test Measure?
The CD55/CD59 test procedure uses flow cytometry to detect whether these two proteins are present in normal quantities on red blood cells and white blood cells. Both proteins are anchored to cell surfaces by a molecule called GPI (glycosylphosphatidylinositol). When these anchors are missing due to a genetic mutation, the cells become vulnerable to immune attack.
| Parameter | What It Measures |
|---|---|
| CD55 (DAF) on red blood cells | Controls enzymes that can damage cell membranes |
| CD59 (MIRL) on red blood cells | Blocks the formation of a protein complex that can puncture cells |
| CD55 on granulocytes (white blood cells) | Confirms GPI-anchor deficiency in immune cells |
| CD59 on granulocytes | Assessed alongside RBC results for a more accurate diagnosis |
| GPI-deficient cell percentage | Determines what proportion of cells are affected |
Why Is a CD55/CD59 Test Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor suspects a blood disorder involving the abnormal destruction of red blood cells. It is a specialised test most often used to diagnose a rare condition called PNH (paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria).
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
- Dark, cola-coloured urine, particularly in the morning
- Persistent fatigue and weakness without a clear cause
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain
- Unexplained blood clots in unusual locations
- Difficulty swallowing
- Unexplained low blood counts (anaemia, low white cells, or low platelets)
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
- Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH)
- Classic haemolytic PNH
- PNH associated with aplastic anaemia
- PNH associated with bone marrow failure syndromes
- Small PNH clones in selected patients with myelodysplastic syndromes
CD55/CD59 Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
In patients with aplastic anaemia or PNH, flow cytometry is used regularly to track the size of the abnormal cell clone over time. Monitoring is typically done every 6 to 12 months to assess disease progression and response to therapy. Changes in clone size can guide treatment decisions and help detect worsening of bone marrow function.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test. The following sections explain what to do before and during sample collection.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for the CD55/CD59 test. You can eat and drink as normal before your appointment. If you are booked for other tests on the same day, check whether those require fasting.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
- If available, bring relevant medical records or previous test results, as these may help your doctor interpret the findings.
- Inform your doctor or the phlebotomist about all medications you are currently taking or any known allergies.
- Stay well hydrated before the test, as this makes blood collection easier.
- Wear clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up easily.
- You do not need to change your regular diet or fluid intake.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A trained phlebotomist cleans the inside of your arm with an antiseptic solution.
- A needle is gently inserted into a vein, usually at the inner elbow, to draw blood.
- Approximately 2–5 mL of blood is collected into an EDTA tube.
- The needle is removed, and light pressure is applied to the site. The process takes only a few minutes.
- The sample is stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and dispatched to the laboratory.
- Flow cytometry is used to assess CD55 and CD59 expression on blood cells, particularly granulocytes and red blood cells, to detect PNH clones.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Recent blood transfusions, which can alter the measured red blood cell clone size.
- Improper sample handling or incorrect storage temperature.
- Delay in processing the sample after collection.
- Active haemolytic episodes, which can cause deficient red blood cells to disappear, making white blood cell testing especially important.
- Weak CD55 expression on cells, which can make interpretation more difficult if laboratory washing steps are not carried out correctly.
Understanding Your CD55/CD59 Test Results
Your results show the percentage of blood cells that express CD55 and CD59. A doctor will review these numbers in the context of your symptoms and medical history. The reference ranges below are general guidelines.
| Parameter | Expected Finding | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| CD55 expression on red blood cells | Normal expression on the vast majority of red blood cells | Indicates that red blood cells have normal protection against complement-mediated damage. |
| CD59 expression on red blood cells | Normal expression on the vast majority of red blood cells | Suggests normal protection against the destruction of red blood cells. |
| CD55 expression on granulocytes | Normal expression on the vast majority of granulocytes | Indicates normal expression of this protective protein on white blood cells. |
| CD59 expression on granulocytes | Normal expression on the vast majority of granulocytes | Supports normal complement regulation on white blood cells. |
| GPI-deficient cells (PNH clone) | Absent or present only at very low levels | A significant increase may suggest paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) or a related bone marrow disorder. |
Cells may be classified as Type I (normal CD55 and CD59 levels), Type II (reduced levels), or Type III (absent levels), depending on the degree of deficiency detected.
Disclaimer: These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
- Transfused donor red blood cells express normal CD55 and CD59, which can dilute the proportion of PNH red cells and make the red-cell clone appear smaller than it truly is.
- During a haemolytic episode, deficient red blood cells may be destroyed rapidly, making granulocyte results a more reliable measure.
- In patients on treatment, the red blood cell clone size may decrease, but this does not always reflect a complete resolution of the condition.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
PNH is an acquired genetic disorder and is not caused by lifestyle factors. General wellness steps include:
- Staying well hydrated to support overall blood health.
- Avoiding infections where possible, as they can trigger haemolytic episodes.
- Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments with your haematologist.
Lupin Diagnostics CD55/CD59 Test Price and Home Collection
The CD55/CD59 test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹2,600, and home collection is available across major cities. The table below shows approximate prices based on aggregator data across India.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 6500 |
| CHENNAI | 6500 |
| HYDERABAD | 6500 |
| KOLKATA | 6500 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 2600 |
| PUNE | 6500 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Home Collection
The CD55/CD59 test home collection service is available across multiple cities. A certified phlebotomist visits your home at your chosen time to collect the sample. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories, and your digital report is shared securely via email or WhatsApp.
Frequently Asked Questions
The CD55/CD59 test is primarily used to diagnose paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH), a rare blood disorder in which blood cells lack protective proteins such as CD55 and CD59, making them vulnerable to complement-mediated destruction. It uses flow cytometry to measure the expression of CD55 and CD59 on blood cell surfaces.
No fasting is required. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However, do inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may be relevant to the results.
A phlebotomist draws approximately 2 mL of blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is collected in a lavender-topped EDTA tube, which prevents the blood from clotting, and is then sent to the laboratory for flow cytometry analysis.
A doctor may order the CD55/CD59 test if you have unexplained haemolytic anaemia, dark or cola-coloured urine (especially in the morning), unusual blood clots, persistently low blood counts, or fatigue that does not improve with standard treatment.
Yes. Small PNH clones may be detected in some patients with aplastic anaemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and certain other bone marrow disorders. The test helps identify PNH clones even when they occur alongside these associated conditions.
Results for the CD55/CD59 test are available within 6 days of sample collection at Lupin Diagnostics. The turnaround time may vary slightly depending on your location.
Yes. If PNH is confirmed, your haematologist will likely recommend periodic flow cytometry testing every 6 to 12 months. This helps monitor the size of the abnormal cell clone, track disease progression, and assess how well treatment is working.
CD55/CD59 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
