ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Acid Hemolysin (Ham Test) : 0049010

Mnemonic: HAM

Ordering Recommendation: This test is considered obsolete for the diagnosis of PNH. Preferred initial diagnostic test for PNH is Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria Panel, RBC and WBC (2005006). In the rare instance when congenital dyserythropoietic anemia type II is suspected, this acid hemolysin (Ham) test is the preferred initial test.
Methodology: Visual Identification
Performed: Mon-Fri
Reported: 1-2 days
Specimen Required: Collect: Plain red AND lavender (EDTA) or pink (K2EDTA).

Specimen Preparation: Separate serum from cells within 2 hours of collection. Transport 3 mL serum AND 5 mL whole blood. (Min: 1.5 mL serum AND 1 mL whole blood).

Storage/Transport Temperature: Room temperature. Specimens should be received within 24 hours of collection and testing must be performed within 48 hours of collection.

Remarks: Indicate patient's blood type on test request form.

Unacceptable Conditions: Serum specimens that have not been separated from the cells within 2 hours of collection.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): After separation from cells: Ambient: 48 hours; Refrigerated: Unacceptable; Frozen: Unacceptable

Reference Interval:
Negative
Interpretive Data: Refer to report.
CPT Code(s): 85475
Cross References: Congenital Dyserythropoietic Anemia Type II (Acid Hemolysin (Ham Test)), Ham Test (Acid Hemolysin (Ham Test))