Ham Test - Price, Uses, Procedure, Results, & More

Table of Content

Introduction to HAM Test

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare blood disorder. It affects your immune system and attacks red blood cells (RBCs) and platelets. Variants in the PIGA gene affect the cell and give rise to PNH blood disorder. These variants lead to a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) shortage, which forces the immune system to attack the hemolysis. The HAM test helps diagnose PNH blood disorder. 

The HAM test needs blood samples to evaluate the performance of RBCs and diagnose PNH. The test provides an accurate reason, essential for doctors to understand the situation and get ahead with the treatment. Symptoms may appear at a moderate stage. Regular checkups or a HAM test from Redcliffe Labs can help prevent several life-threatening diseases. 

Redcliffe Labs offers the HAM test, which is affordable and accessible. We have 3600+ tests with home sample collection service and on-time reports delivery. Our DMLT-certified phlebotomists are experts in conducting a seamless test procedure, and our lab technicians use the latest technology for testing. The HAM test price is INR 1200 and is available in PAN India. 

Test Details in Brief 

What is the Purpose of the HAM Test?

Your blood contains three major compounds: Red Blood Cells (RBCs), platelets, and White Blood Cells (WBCs). They deliver oxygen to organs and tissues in the body. The primary function of the HAM test is to assist doctors in diagnosing blood disorders, specifically paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) or congenital dyserythropoietic anemia (CDA). 

What is the HAM Test Used For?

The HAM test is used to diagnose an individual with suspected PNH. The HAM test for a patient can also evaluate: 

• Congenital dyserythropoietic anemia
• Hemosiderinuria 
• Pancytopenia 
• Decreased RBC acetylcholinesterase
• Decrease leukocyte alkaline phosphatase
• Negative direct Coomb’s test
• Marrow failure

What Does The HAM Test Measure?

The HAM test is a screening test that measures: 

1. PNH levels in the blood
2. Sensitivity of red blood cells 
3. Check the immune system's ability to fight
4. Analysis of any signs of lysis or destruction 
5. Hemoglobin using a spectrophotometer. 

Symptoms of HAM 

Every person is different. PNH may leave distinct marks based on factors such as age, fitness level, gender, and medical & family history. Here are certain symptoms a person with PNH may experience: 

• Fatigue 
• Anemia 
• Chest pain 
• Abdominal pain 
• Back pain 
• Dark urine
• Frequent urination 
• Jaundice 
• Shortness of breath 
• Difficulty in swallowing

Sometimes, a person may not receive any symptoms, making it complicated for early diagnosis. In such cases, only regular checkups help. However, you can take the HAM test from Redcliffe Labs.

Why Can A Doctor Recommend Taking The HAM Test?

A doctor might suggest the HAM test during a regular check-up if they suspect symptoms such as anemia. However, they might also suggest the test in case they identify these clinical signs: 

1. Hemoglobinuria 
2. Unexplained 
• hemolysis 
• coombs-negative hemolytic anemia 
• hemolytic anemia or cytopenia
3. Signs of 
• Abdominal pain 
• Iron deficiency
• Thrombosis
• Dysphagia
• Granulocytopenia or thrombocytopenia
4. Bone marrow failure 
• Aplastic anemia
• Hypoplastic anemia 
• Myelodysplastic syndrome 
5. Thrombosis at an unusual site

Preparation For The HAM Test 

The HAM lab test needs no special preparation. Only blood samples are required to test PNH. To get accurate test reports, make sure to follow the following guidelines. 

1. The test requires a blood sample that can make you feel weak or fatigued. So, make sure to keep yourself hydrated. Drink at least 4 liters of water a day. 
2. The test may raise several questions in your head, hindering test reports. Clear all your doubts with your doctor to ensure accurate results. 
3. The test may generate stress and anxiety in the body. However, the HAM test is not as complicated as expected. So, try to keep your head stress and anxiety-free. 
4. Practice deep-breathing exercises such as yoga, meditation, and minute deep-breathing diseases. 
5. Limit heavy lifting objects and exercises both at home and the gym. 
6. Diet is only if asked for by your healthcare professional. As the test requires no dieting, follow your daily diet. 
7. Avoid consumption of any harmful substances, such as alcohol and smoking. These substances directly attack the kidneys and lungs. Better to avoid or have moderate consumption. 
8. Avoid wearing long-sleeved shirts for testing. 
9. Keep yourself tension-free and relaxed before and during the HAM test. 

The Procedure of The HAM Test 

The HAM test is a regular blood test. A lab technician requires your blood sample to detect PNH’s presence in the blood. Our DMLT-certified phlebotomists visit your home to collect the blood sample, making it convenient for every Indian. We are present across India, providing India with its right to quality diagnostics. The HAM’s test procedure, which our phlebotomists will perform to collect blood samples is as: 

1. Our phlebotomists will ask you to make yourself comfortable. Once done, they will move ahead with the testing procedure. 
2. With a long-sleeve shirt, they will ask you to roll it up. 
3. On the upper arm, they will tie a band around your upper arm to detect an appropriate vein. 
4. They will clean the site when the vein is located to collect blood samples. 
5. After cleaning, the phlebotomist will insert a sterile syringe to collect blood samples. 
6. Once collected, they will transfer the collected blood into a container.
7. They will put a cotton ball on the punctured site to prevent bleeding. 
8. They might ask you to hold it for a few seconds or till the bleeding stops. 
9. Later, label the container with your details, including name, collection time, date, and place. 
10. Once done, they transport the blood sample to our lab for testing. 
11. You will receive your test results within 36 hours. 

The HAM test price is INR 1200, inclusive of test booking, sample collection, transportation, testing, and test results. By choosing Redcliffe Labs, you are choosing 100% report correctness. Our labs follow NABL and ISO guidelines and go through 50+ internal and external checks to ensure correct reports. 

Risks Associated With The HAM Test 

The HAM lab test is simple. It has no adverse risks. However, a phlebotomist will insert a sterile needle to collect the blood sample, which may result in: 

• Excessive blood loss
• Slight pain 
• Hematoma
• Bruising 
• Weakness 
• Fatigue 
• Skin infection 
• Infection on the site
• Fainting 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Swelling of the vein (in some cases)

Understanding Results of The HAM Test

PNH level defines the diagnosis and treatment after the HAM test. There are three specific classifications: classic, clinical, and subclinical. Let’s understand the classification of PNH. 

A lab technician performs the test to determine if there is a presence of PNH or not. If there is no breakdown of RBCs in an acid solution, there is no presence of PNH. However, if there is a breakdown, then there is the presence of PNH in your blood. 

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)

PNH is a rare blood disorder that forces RBCs to die prematurely. Nonetheless, PNH blood disorders affect WBCs and platelets as well, but, WBCs fight infection and platelets prevent bleeding. PNH is not a genetic or gender-specific disease. It can affect both men and women. However, it is common in early adolescence. 

The symptoms of PNH range from mild to severe. Folate and iron replacement can treat mild symptoms, while for severe symptoms some people take steroids. In a few extreme cases, doctors may suggest bone marrow transplantation to treat the disorder. PNH can cause: 

• Fatigue 
• Back pain 
• Dark color urine 
• Recurring infections 
• Abdominal pain 
• Severe headaches 
• Thrombosis 
• Shortness of breath 
• Pale skin 
• Breathlessness 

Congenital Dyserythropoietic Anemia 

Unlike PNH, CDA is genetic. CDA causes a deficiency of red blood cells (RBCs). It prevents the circulation of blood to the cells and tissues. It can cause fatigue, weakness, jaundice, liver disease, dizziness, and pale skin. 

Congenital Dyserythropoietic Anemia (CDA) is of three types. Each type has different symptoms in the body. After looking at the test reports and symptoms, your doctor may recommend the type of CDA. 

CDA 1 can cause mild anemia, yellow skin & eyes, and an overload of anemia. Doctors may suggest chelation therapy. 

CDA 2 may cause mild or severe signs. Usually, diagnosed in early childhood. It can cause gallstones, heart disease, cirrhosis, and diabetes. 

CDA 3 has mild symptoms. Usually, diagnosed in adulthood. It can also lead to vision impairment and, in worse cases, cancer (of WBCs). 

Tips To Prevent The HAM Test

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a genetic mutation that can’t be prevented. However, by following certain guidelines, you may prevent the risk of PNH and avoid the HAM lab test. Here are the guidelines you can follow. 

1. Especially, during the flu and cold season, wear masks or respirators in public. 
2. Make sure to wash your hands, especially before eating or touching your face. 
3. Manage PNH symptoms with appropriate treatments. 
4. Follow a healthy diet filled with vegetables, fruits, protein, and whole grains. 
5. Avoid junk food, high-fat, and sugary food. 
6. Take oral or intravenous iron supplements after consulting your doctor. 

HAM Test Price at Redcliffe Labs 

Redcliffe Labs offers the HAM test price at INR 1200. We have 80+ labs present across India, which makes it convenient for testing. The objective is to grant every Indian access to quality diagnostics. We have 3600+ tests at a reasonable and affordable price. With our every test, get a value benefit worth INR 999, which includes a personalized diet plan, health progress reports, and consultation. 

HAM Test Cost in Different Cities - Redcliffe Labs

Note: We also offer HAM Test PAN India. Please call the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.

HAM Test @ Redcliffe Labs 

Blood contains RBCs, WBCs, and platelets. Any abnormality in any of these can lead to a chronic disease. PNH is a blood disorder that affects the functioning of RBCs. If you see symptoms, consult a doctor. They may guide you in early detection and treatment. To diagnose the medical condition, get the HAM test from Redcliffe Labs. All our labs follow NABL and ISO guidelines to ensure correct test reports. The expert team goes through 50+ internal and external tests to ensure 100% report correctness. Don’t let mild signs turn severe. Book the HAM test from Redcliffe Labs at just INR 1200.