Donath-Landsteiner test

Anti-P antibody; Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria - Donath-Landsteiner

A blood sample is needed.

No special preparation is needed.

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others feel only a prick or stinging. Afterward, there may be some throbbing or a slight bruise. This soon goes away.

This test is done to confirm a diagnosis of paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria.

The test is considered normal if no Donath-Landsteiner antibodies are present. This is called a ''negative'' result.

Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your health care provider about the meaning of your specific test results.

Abnormal results mean Donath-Landsteiner antibodies are present. This is a sign of paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria.

There is very little risk involved with having your blood taken. Veins and arteries vary in size from one person to another and from one side of the body to the other. Taking blood from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight, but may include:

• Excessive bleeding
• Fainting or feeling lightheaded
• Hematoma (blood buildup under the skin)
• Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)