What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to determine the fragility of red blood cells. It helps in diagnosis acquired and congenital blood disorders. It involves soaking of blood sample in mild acid to test the fragility of your blood cells.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed to diagnose certain blood disorders including:
- Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
- Congenital dyserythropoietic anemia.
- What is Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria?
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria is a rare acquired blood disease characterized by destruction of red blood cells, and bone marrow impairment.
- What is congenital dyserythropoietic anemia?
Congenital dyserythropoietic anemia is an inherited blood disorder similar to thalassemia. It is characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis leading to shortage of red blood cells.
- How to prepare for this test?
No special preparations are required for this test. However, inform your doctor about the use of any blood thinners such as Warfarin. Your doctor may recommend to stop using it before the test.
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- What is the treatment of Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria?
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria can be managed by iron and folate replacements. Some doctors also use steroids. If PNH is severe, a bone marrow transplant may be required.
- Interpretation of test results:
Negative: A negative result means that no blood cell fragility was found.
Positive: A positive or abnormal result means that blood cell fragility was found, which could be due to two causes
- Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
- Congenital dyserythropoietic anemia.