(Specialist) Red cell studies
| Category | Haematology |
|---|---|
| Test background |
The specialist laboratories within North West London Pathology can test for a number of rarer enzyme-opathies as listed below, deficiencies of: aldolase; hexokinase; glucose phosphate isomerase; glutathione; glutathione stability; low substrate pyruvate kinase; phosphofructokinase; glutathione peroxidase; methaemoglobin reductase. A variety of additional tests are available for the investigation of red cell disorders, including auto-haemolysis screen and osmotic fragility. |
| Clinical Indications |
Specialist red cell studies can be performed as part of the investigation of haemolytic anaemia. Specific tests are normally undertaken on the advice of the Consultant Haematologist. |
| Sample & container required | 4 mL EDTA (lavender top) adults 0.5 mL EDTA (lavender top) paediatrics Please note: a lithium heparin sample (green top) is required for osmotic fragility. |
| Sample volume | 0.5 mL adult tube 0.2 mL paediatric tube |
| Turnaround time | 3-5 days |