Bloch representation of quantum Fisher information in phase estimations with non-Hermitian Hamiltonians

Non-Hermitian systems exhibit great potential for quantum-enhanced sensing, yet a unified information-theoretic framework to quantify their sensing capabilities remains elusive. Here, we investigate quantum Fisher information (QFI) in phase estimation processes governed by non-Hermitian Hamiltonians. In two-dimensional systems, we derive a closed-form formula for QFI using the Bloch representation, which applies to both pure and mixed states, as well as Hermitian and non-Hermitian Hamiltonians. Such a general formula allows us to rigorously establish upper bounds on QFI and to identify the conditions under which these bounds are achievable. By scrutinizing a specific non-Hermitian Hamiltonian with parity-time (PT) symmetry, we demonstrate that the upper bound of QFI is exactly attained in the PT-symmetry regime, at the exceptional point, and in the PT-symmetry-breaking regime. Finally, we extend our analysis to mixed states in higher dimensions, establishing a practical inequality that sets the lower and upper bounds of QFI.