Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria Causes
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria are often caused by breaking of the red blood cells in the human bloodstream, usually by foreign organisms during infection.
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria Definition
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria is a very rare disease. This often acquired and can be life-threatening for the patient. Patients with Parxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria is likely to suffer from anemia caused by the destruction of the red blood cells, red urine caused by the presence of hemoglobin in the urine, and also suffer thrombosis.
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria Diagnosis
To diagnose Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, a sugar lysis test is often done. In this process red blood cells samples collected from the patient are placed in a low ionic strength solution and is closely observed for possible hemolysis. Ham's acid hemolysis is a more specific test done for diagnosis if the result of the sugar test showed positive for hemolysis. The latest method for diagnosis includes flow cytometry for CD55, CD59, and CD16 done on red blood cells as well as white blood cells.
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria Symptoms and Signs
Primary symptoms include tiredness, abnormal palpitations of the heart, and shortness of breath. There are also presence of hemoglobin and hemosiderin in the urine.
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria Treatment
Some treatments for Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria include medications using steroids like prednisolone. Therapies like transfusion therapy may also be needed to complement treatment for significant anemia.