PNH is diagnosed through flow cytometry testing, using fluorescently labelled inactive variant of protein aerolysin (FLAER) to identify GPI-deficient cells. Importantly, RBC analysis alone may underestimate the PNH clone size, therefore the analysis of polymorphonuclear cells is also necessary.1,2
Laboratory abnormalities include direct antiglobulin test (DAT)-negative haemolytic anaemia, reticulocytosis and elevated LDH levels. Haemoglobin and haematocrit can be near normal in patients with adequate reticulocyte production. Iron deficiency can be present in some patients due to chronic haemoglobinuria and haemosiderinuria.3,4
Bone marrow examination is not necessary to confirm the diagnosis but is recommended in patients with leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, to evaluate possible aplastic anaemia or myelodysplastic syndrome.1,4
These diagnostic and laboratory findings will allow the classification of patients into three groups based on the International PNH Interest Group recommendations.1,5
Learn more about the treatment options in PNH
and explore other PNH resources
This website is a non-promotional global resource intended to facilitate transparent scientific exchange regarding developments in medical research, diagnostics, and disease management. It is intended for healthcare professionals.
Not a healthcare professional? Browse:
This global website is intended for healthcare professionals outside the UK, US, Canada and Australia. The content on this website may include scientific information about experimental or investigational compounds, indications and services that are not approved or valid in your jurisdiction. Registration status and prescribing information of medicinal products may differ between countries. Please refer to local product information for any medicinal products mentioned on this website. Information available on this website does not constitute professional medical advice, and Roche and Genentech accept no responsibility for access to or use of the same.
You are Leaving Medically
By following this link, you are leaving Roche Website and entering a site that is not owned or controlled by Roche. Roche does not take any responsibility for acces to or use of this website, nor for any content therein.
You are Leaving the Global Medically Site
By following this link, you are being redirected to another Roche page.