Complement Test For Immune System & Inflammatory Conditions

Complement Test For Immune System & Inflammatory Conditions

A Complement Test is a blood test that measures the activity and levels of proteins in the complement system, a crucial part of the immune system. This test helps diagnose and monitor various autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, providing valuable insights into the body's immune response.

 

Complement Test

Here are the basic details of the Complement Test.

Also Known As Complement C3 and C4 Test
Type Blood test
Purpose Assess immune system and diagnose disorders
Sample Type Serum
Preparation No
Fasting Fasting is not typically required
Gender All
Age Group All
Normal Value
  • C3: 90 - 180 mg/dL
  • C4: 10 - 40 mg/dL
Reporting Time Few Days
Cost 1000 - 2000 INR*

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

 

Complement Test Means

The Complement Test assesses proteins in the immune system.

  • Measures the levels and activity of complement proteins.
  • Used to diagnose and monitor immune system disorders.
  • Helps identify conditions like autoimmune diseases.
  • Aids in evaluating the body's ability to fight infections.

 

Complement Test Purpose

The purpose of the Complement Test is to:

  • Assess the activity and levels of complement proteins.
  • Diagnose immune system disorders and deficiencies.
  • Monitor treatment effectiveness for autoimmune diseases.
  • Evaluate the body's ability to fight infections.
  • Aid in understanding immune system function.

Complement Test_ Price, Normal Range, Result, Purpose, Procedure Meaning and Interpretation - Drlogy Test

 

Complement Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the Complement Test.

 

Before Test

  • No fasting or dietary restrictions are typically required.
  • Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking.
  • Wear clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up.

 

During Test

  • A blood sample will be drawn from a vein, usually from the arm.
  • You may experience a brief, mild discomfort during the blood draw.

 

After Test

  • You can resume normal activities immediately.
  • You may experience slight bruising or soreness at the site of the blood draw, which should resolve on its own.
  • Follow any additional instructions or recommendations from your healthcare provider regarding the test results and any necessary follow-up.

 

Complement Test Procedure

Here is the basic Complement Test Procedure.

  • Schedule the test with your healthcare provider.
  • Arrive at the lab or healthcare facility for the test.
  • No fasting or special preparations are usually necessary.
  • A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample.
  • They will clean the injection site, often in your arm.
  • A needle will be inserted to collect a small blood sample.
  • You may feel mild discomfort during the blood draw.
  • The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
  • Results are typically available within a few days.
  • Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you.
  • Follow any further recommendations or treatment if needed.

 

Complement Test Result

Complement test measures the activity and levels of immune proteins.

  • Results can vary based on your immune system's health.
  • Higher or lower values may suggest immune system disorders.
  • Interpretation requires consultation with a healthcare provider.

Further tests or evaluation may be needed for a diagnosis.

 

Complement Test Normal Range

Here is the normal range of the Complement Test

Complement Component Normal Range (mg/dL)
C3 90 - 180 mg/dL
C4 10 - 40 mg/dL

 

Complement Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the Complement Test.

Complement Level Interpretation
High Suggests potential autoimmune conditions.
Normal Typical immune system function.
Low May indicate immune system deficiencies.

 

Complement Test High Levels

Potential Causes of High Complement Test Levels.

High Complement Test Levels Potential Causes
Autoimmune Diseases Conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Inflammatory Conditions Rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis, or inflammatory disorders.
Bacterial Infections Conditions such as sepsis or endocarditis.
Pregnancy Pregnancy can elevate complement levels.
Medications Certain medications can increase complement levels.

Elevated Complement test levels may suggest an underlying medical condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

 

Complement Test Low Levels

Potential Causes of Low Complement Test Levels.

Low Complement Test Levels Potential Causes
Autoimmune Diseases Conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Hereditary Deficiencies Genetic factors leading to complement deficiencies.
Kidney Disorders Kidney diseases may reduce complement production.
Certain Medications Medications or treatments affecting complement.
Complement Activation Excessive complement activation in some disorders.

Low Complement test levels can indicate various underlying health conditions, including autoimmune diseases, hereditary deficiencies, and kidney disorders. Consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

 

Specimen Requirements For Complement Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the Complement Test.

Specimen

Serum, frozen

Volume

1 ml

Container

Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube

Collection

Allow specimen to clot at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes. Remove serum after centrifugation, place in plastic transport tube and freeze.

Storage

Freeze

Sample Stability

Temperature

Period

Frozen

14 days

Freeze/thaw cycles

Stable x3

Causes for Rejection

Specimen not frozen; gross lipemia; plasma specimen (Ascorbic acid, bilirubin, and hemoglobin do not have a significant effect on the measurement.)

 

Complement Test is Safe?

The Complement test is generally safe and non-invasive.

  • It entails a standard blood draw, which is a routine procedure.
  • Risks are minimal, with the possibility of mild discomfort or bruising at the injection sit

 

When Do You Get Complement Test Results? 

  • Complement test results are typically available within a few days.
  • Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during a follow-up appointment.

 

Complement Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of Complement Test.

  • Complement levels can vary with age, gender, and other factors.
  • Results may fluctuate in response to acute infections or stress.
  • The test does not pinpoint the specific cause of complement system issues.
  • It requires interpretation in conjunction with clinical context.
  • Further diagnostic tests may be needed to confirm specific disorders.

 

Complement Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the Complement Test.

  • Certain medications and infections can impact complement levels.
  • Age, gender, and genetics may affect reference ranges.
  • Complement levels can fluctuate in response to acute health conditions.
  • False positives or negatives can occur, requiring further evaluation.
  • Interpretation should consider the patient's overall clinical context.

 

Doctor Recommendations After Complement Test Result

 Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the Complement Test.

Complement Test Result Doctor to Consult Reason to Visit Doctor
High Rheumatologist Suspected autoimmune conditions
Normal Primary Care Physician Routine checkup
Low Immunologist or Nephrologist Immune system or kidney evaluation

 

Complement Test Price

Here are the estimated Complement Test Prices in India with different top cities:

City

Price Range (INR)*

Mumbai

1000-2000

New Delhi

1200-2000

Bangalore

1000-2000

Hyderabad

1200-2000

Kolkata

1000-2000

Pune

1200-2000

Lucknow

1000-2000

Noida

1200-2000

Surat

1200-2000

Gurugram

1000-2000

Patna

1200-2000

Chennai

1000-2000

Jaipur

1200-2000

Ahmedabad

1000-2000

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

 

Summary

Overall, Complement Test aids in the diagnosis and management of various immune system disorders by measuring the activity and levels of complement proteins. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

 

Reference

  • Complement C3 (Blood) - Health Encyclopedia - URMC [1].
  • Complement testing in the clinical laboratory- NIH [2].
5001 Likes
Share

FAQ

What is a Complement Test?

A Complement Test is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the levels and activity of complement proteins in the blood. These proteins play a crucial role in the immune system by helping to destroy pathogens and infected cells.

Why is a Complement Test important?

Complement tests are essential in diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases, kidney disorders, and infections. They provide valuable insights into the immune system's functionality.

How is a Complement Test performed?

Complement tests typically involve drawing a blood sample and analyzing it in a laboratory. Various methods, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or radial immunodiffusion, are used to measure complement protein levels.

How are Complement Test results interpreted?

Results are interpreted by comparing them to reference ranges provided by the laboratory. Abnormal results may indicate complement deficiencies, autoimmune conditions, or other underlying issues.

DOCTOR'S MOST TRUSTED HEALTHCARE PLATFORM

10M+

Patients

30000+

Doctors

25000+

Hospitals/Labs