The complement system is a group of proteins (C1–C9) that participate in your body’s immune and inflammatory responses. In those with autoimmune disorders, the C3 protein may drop. This test measures C3 levels so your health care provider can assess risk and treatment options.
The complement system is a group of proteins that are important in your defense against infection and play a role in the development of inflammation.
There are nine major complement proteins called C1 through C9. Complement component C3 is the most important and abundant protein in the complement system. These various components travel through your blood stream searching for foreign invaders such as bacteria or viruses. When this happens, the complement system is activated and works as a cascading event like the falling of a row of dominoes. Most of the time the outcome of complement activation is favorable; the "foreign invader" is removed with no damage to cells or tissue. But in some people, the compliment system activation becomes uncontrolled or certain components may be deficient causing autoimmune disease or the risk of recurrent mild or serious bacterial infections.
This blood test measures component 3 (C3) of the complement system. Deficiency of C3 may be associated with active lupus, recurrent bacterial infections, and acute glomerulonephritis (a type of kidney disease caused by problems with your body’s immune system).1
Instructions
Fasting is not required. Take all medications as prescribed.
References
The laboratory services are for informational purposes only. It is not the intention of National Diagnostics, Inc and Life Extension to provide specific medical advice but rather to provide users with information to better understand their health. Specific medical advice including diagnosis and treatment will not be provided. Always seek the advice of a trained health professional for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Both the physician and the testing laboratory are independent contractors with whom National Diagnostics, Inc makes arrangements for your blood tests. Neither National Diagnostics, Inc or Life Extension will be liable for any acts or omissions of the physician, the testing laboratory, or their agents or employees.
Copyright Life Barn Club. All Rights Reserved. by 3dcart eCommerce Website design.