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PKLR Gene Pyruvate kinase deficiency with hemolytic anemia NGS Genetic Test

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PKLR Gene Pyruvate kinase deficiency with hemolytic anemia NGS Genetic Test

Short Name: PKLR Gene NGS Test

Also known as: PKLR Gene Mutation Analysis, Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency Genetic Test, PKD NGS Panel, PKLR Sequencing Test, Hemolytic Anemia Genetic Panel - PKLR

PKLR Gene Pyruvate kinase deficiency with hemolytic anemia NGS Genetic Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹20,000. Uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Bioinformatic Analysis, ACMG Variant Classification on Blood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card samples. Results in 3 to 4 Weeks from sample receipt at the laboratory. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)All Ages🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The purpose of the PKLR Gene NGS Genetic Test is to identify pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations in the PKLR gene responsible for pyruvate kinase deficiency with hemolytic anemia. This test enables definitive molecular diagnosis, differentiates PKD from other causes of hereditary hemolytic anemia, facilitates carrier detection in family members, supports informed genetic counseling and family planning, and guides clinical management decisions including the potential need for splenectomy or blood transfusion therapy.

Test Code
2236
CPT Code
81479
ICD Code
D55.2
Price
₹20,000
Sample Type
Blood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card
Result Time
3 to 4 Weeks from sample receipt at the laboratory
Fasting Required
No
Method
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Bioinformatic Analysis, ACMG Variant Classification
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation such as fasting is required. Ensure the patient's clinical history and family history are documented. A genetic counseling session is recommended prior to sample collection to draw a pedigree chart of family members affected with pyruvate kinase deficiency.

Method: Venipuncture / FTA Card finger prick

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A venous blood sample of 3-5 mL is collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube. Alternatively, one drop of blood can be collected on an FTA card. The sample should be labeled correctly with patient details and transported at ambient room temperature.

Step 3

Report Delivery

The sample is transported to the DNA Labs India laboratory under ambient room temperature conditions. DNA extraction is performed followed by NGS library preparation and sequencing. Reports are delivered within 3 to 4 weeks through the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.

Timeline: 3 to 4 Weeks from sample receipt at the laboratory

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting is required. A pre-test genetic counseling session is recommended to document the clinical history of the patient and draw a pedigree chart of family members affected with pyruvate kinase deficiency or hemolytic anemia. Ensure all relevant clinical information is shared with the laboratory.
2
During the Test:A blood sample (3-5 mL in EDTA tube) or one drop of blood on an FTA card is collected via venipuncture or finger prick. The collection process is straightforward and similar to a routine blood draw. The sample is labeled and transported to the laboratory.
3
After the Test:After sample collection, no specific restrictions apply. Patients may resume normal activities. The sample undergoes DNA extraction, NGS library preparation, sequencing, bioinformatic analysis, and variant classification. Results are delivered within 3 to 4 weeks.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of the PKLR Gene NGS Genetic Test is to identify pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutations in the PKLR gene responsible for pyruvate kinase deficiency with hemolytic anemia. This test enables definitive molecular diagnosis, differentiates PKD from other causes of hereditary hemolytic anemia, facilitates carrier detection in family members, supports informed genetic counseling and family planning, and guides clinical management decisions including the potential need for splenectomy or blood transfusion therapy.

How to Prepare

  • Collect 3-5 mL venous blood in an EDTA (lavender-top) vacutainer tube.
  • Alternatively, collect one drop of blood on an FTA card.
  • Ensure proper patient identification and labeling of the sample.
  • Do not freeze the sample. Maintain at ambient room temperature during transport.
  • Transport the sample to the laboratory within 48 hours of collection.
  • Document the patient's clinical history and family pedigree prior to testing.

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (General Medicine) · Reg. No. 8052

"Pyruvate kinase deficiency is the most common enzyme defect of the glycolytic pathway causing hereditary non-spherocytic hemolytic anemia. An accurate molecular diagnosis through NGS of the PKLR gene is essential for confirming the diagnosis, assessing disease severity, guiding treatment decisions such as splenectomy, and enabling informed genetic counseling for affected families. Early diagnosis can significantly improve patient outcomes by preventing complications of chronic hemolysis including gallstones, iron overload, and aplastic crises."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeBlood or Extracted DNA or One drop Blood on FTA Card
Sample Volume3-5 mL whole blood
ContainerEDTA (Lavender-top) tube or FTA Card
Collection MethodVenipuncture / FTA Card finger prick

Sample Stability

EDTA blood at ambient temperature
EDTA blood at 2-8°C
Extracted DNA at -20°C
FTA Card at ambient temperature
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Sample received without proper labeling or patient identification
  • Clotted or hemolyzed blood sample in EDTA tube
  • Sample collected in incorrect anticoagulant (e.g., heparin)
  • Insufficient sample volume for DNA extraction
  • Sample received beyond the acceptable stability window without prior arrangement

Understanding Your Results

The results of the PKLR Gene NGS Genetic Test are interpreted based on the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) variant classification guidelines. A clinical report is generated that includes identified variants, their classification, zygosity, associated clinical significance, and recommendations for further action.
📊

Confirms the diagnosis of pyruvate kinase deficiency. Two copies of the mutant PKLR gene are present. Clinical correlation with hemolytic anemia symptoms is expected. Genetic counseling and family screening are recommended.

Result type: Pathogenic or Likely Pathogenic Variant (Homozygous)

📊

Confirms the diagnosis of pyruvate kinase deficiency. Two different pathogenic variants are present on each allele of the PKLR gene. Disease severity may vary depending on the specific variant combination.

Result type: Pathogenic or Likely Pathogenic Variant (Compound Heterozygous)

📊

The individual is a carrier of pyruvate kinase deficiency. Carriers are typically asymptomatic but can pass the variant to offspring. Genetic counseling for family planning is advised. Partner testing may be recommended.

Result type: Single Pathogenic Variant Detected (Heterozygous Carrier)

📊

A variant was identified that currently cannot be classified as pathogenic or benign. Clinical correlation, family segregation analysis, and periodic re-evaluation as new data becomes available are recommended.

Result type: Variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS)

📊

No pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were identified in the PKLR gene. This result does not completely exclude other genetic or non-genetic causes of hemolytic anemia. Clinical correlation and further workup may be necessary.

Result type: No Pathogenic Variant Detected

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a hematologist or clinical geneticist if you or your child experience unexplained jaundice, chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, dark urine, or an enlarged spleen. If there is a family history of pyruvate kinase deficiency or hereditary hemolytic anemia, seek genetic counseling. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of severe anemia, such as rapid heartbeat, chest pain, or extreme fatigue, develop. After receiving test results, discuss them with your physician or genetic counselor to understand the implications and management options.

Limitations

  • This test does not detect large genomic rearrangements beyond the detection capability of the NGS panel.
  • Intronic deep intronic variants and regulatory region variants outside the targeted regions may not be detected.
  • Variants of Uncertain Significance (VUS) may be identified that cannot be definitively classified as pathogenic or benign.
  • A negative result does not completely rule out pyruvate kinase deficiency if caused by variants in non-coding regions or novel mechanisms.
  • Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and biochemical test results.

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal risk associated with blood collection: slight pain or bruising at the venipuncture site.
  • Genetic test results may have psychological and emotional implications for the patient and family.
  • Identification of variants of uncertain significance may cause anxiety and may require additional testing.
  • Genetic information may have implications for insurance and family planning that should be discussed with a genetic counselor.

Interfering Factors

  • Degraded or insufficient DNA quality from the sample
  • Contamination of the sample during collection or transport
  • Recent blood transfusion may dilute patient DNA with donor DNA
  • Hemolysis of the sample may affect DNA extraction yield

Compare With Similar Tests

TestPKLR Gene Pyruvate kinase deficiency with hemolytic anemia NGS Genetic TestSanger Sequencing of PKLR GenePyruvate Kinase Enzyme Activity AssayComplete Blood Count (CBC) with Peripheral Smear
ComparisonPKLR Gene Pyruvate kinase deficiency with hemolytic anemia NGS Genetic Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PKLR Gene Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency?
PKLR Gene Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency is a rare inherited metabolic disorder caused by mutations in the PKLR gene. It leads to reduced or absent pyruvate kinase enzyme activity in red blood cells, resulting in impaired energy production, premature red cell destruction (hemolysis), and hemolytic anemia. It is the most common cause of hereditary non-spherocytic hemolytic anemia.
How is the PKLR Gene NGS Genetic Test performed?
The test uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to comprehensively analyze the entire coding region, exon-intron boundaries, and flanking intronic regions of the PKLR gene. DNA is extracted from the blood sample, a sequencing library is prepared, and the gene is sequenced with high coverage depth. Bioinformatic analysis identifies variants, which are then classified according to ACMG guidelines.
What sample is required for this test?
The test requires a blood sample (3-5 mL collected in an EDTA lavender-top tube) or extracted DNA. Alternatively, one drop of blood can be collected on an FTA card. The sample can be collected at home or at any of our walk-in centers across India.
How long does it take to get the results?
Results are typically available within 3 to 4 weeks from the date the sample is received at the DNA Labs India laboratory. Reports are delivered via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
What is the cost of the PKLR Gene NGS Genetic Test?
The cost of the PKLR Gene Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency with Hemolytic Anemia NGS Genetic Test at DNA Labs India is INR 20,000. This includes free home sample collection across India, NGS sequencing, clinical report, and raw data files (FASTQ and VCF).
Who should get this test?
This test is recommended for individuals with unexplained chronic hemolytic anemia, neonatal jaundice and anemia, persistent reticulocytosis, low pyruvate kinase enzyme activity on biochemical testing, or a family history of pyruvate kinase deficiency. It is also recommended for carrier screening in family members of affected individuals.
Is genetic counseling required before the test?
Yes, a pre-test genetic counseling session is strongly recommended. During this session, the clinical history of the patient is documented, a pedigree chart of affected family members is drawn, and the implications of testing are discussed. This helps ensure informed consent and prepares the patient for possible outcomes.
Can this test detect carrier status?
Yes, the NGS Genetic Test can detect heterozygous carrier status for pyruvate kinase deficiency. Carriers typically have one normal and one mutated copy of the PKLR gene and are usually asymptomatic but can pass the mutation to their offspring. Carrier testing is valuable for family planning decisions.
What happens if the test result is positive?
If pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants are identified in the PKLR gene, a clinical geneticist or hematologist will interpret the results in the context of your clinical presentation. Management may include monitoring of hemoglobin levels, folic acid supplementation, blood transfusions during aplastic crises, and consideration of splenectomy in severe cases. Genetic counseling for family members is also recommended.
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for the PKLR Gene NGS Genetic Test across India. You can book online, and a trained phlebotomist will visit your home to collect the blood sample. This service is available in all major cities and many towns across India.
What files and reports does DNA Labs India provide with this test?
DNA Labs India provides a comprehensive clinical test report along with raw data files including FASTQ files (raw sequencing reads) and VCF files (variant call format). This level of transparency allows independent verification of results and re-analysis if needed in the future. DNA Labs India is the only lab in India that shares these raw data files with patients.
Can the test results be used for family planning decisions?
Yes, the results of the PKLR Gene NGS Genetic Test are highly valuable for family planning. If both partners are found to be carriers, they have a 25% chance of having an affected child with each pregnancy. Genetic counseling can help couples understand the risks and explore options such as prenatal testing, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), or other reproductive choices.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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