Pyruvate Kinase
Alternate Names : PK
Definition
This is a blood test to detect abnormally low levels of pyruvate kinase (PK), an enzyme that helps convert glucose to energy when oxygen is low (termed anaerobic metabolism).
PK is found in red blood cells, and if deficient, the red bloods cells break down more rapidly than usual. This destruction can result in hemolytic anemia, or too few oxygen-carrying red blood cells.
Why is the Test Performed?
Hemolytic anemia has many causes. It may be present from birth or acquired. A deficiency in pyruvate kinase is fairly rare, and this test helps your health care provider determine the cause of your anemia.
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