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Dr. Shreya Gupta

BDS, MDS - Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology

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Dr. Ashish Ranjan

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

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Complement 3

Also known as Complement C-3 Test , Complement C-3 Blood Test , Complement Blood Test , Complement Component 3 (C3) Blood Test

₹629~~₹750~~ 16% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Overnight fasting is preferred but not mandatory.

Understanding Complement 3

What is Complement 3?

The Complement 3 is a blood test that measures the levels of C3, a protein that plays a critical role in the immune system's complement cascade (a series of reactions in the blood which help the body's immune system clear pathogens and damaged cells). It helps diagnose autoimmune diseases, infections and also assess immune system health.

Complement Component 3 (C3) plays a crucial role in the body’s immune defense. It helps fight off infections and remove damaged cells. C3 is central to inflammation, pathogen recognition, and the activation of the immune response. Produced by the liver, it circulates in the bloodstream and becomes activated during immune responses.

In various autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions, the body may experience an imbalance in C3 levels, either through deficiency or excessive activation. Low C3 levels can indicate autoimmune disorders like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or glomerulonephritis. On the other hand, high C3 levels can occur during active inflammation, infection, or acute phase reactions.

The Complement 3 test is particularly useful for diagnosing and monitoring conditions associated with abnormal complement system activity. The test is often recommended for individuals with unexplained symptoms of autoimmune or inflammatory disorders, such as joint pain, kidney problems, skin rashes, or frequent infections. It is also useful for assessing disease activity in conditions like SLE, as changes in C3 levels can reflect flare-ups or remission phases. If there is a family history of autoimmune diseases or genetic conditions that affect the immune system, this test may be recommended as part of a comprehensive health evaluation.

An overnight (8 to 12 hours) fasting is preferred for the Complement 3. However, it is not mandatory. Inform the doctor about all the medications or supplements being taken and narrate the complete medical history, inclusive of any existing health conditions, as all these factors may potentially influence the test results.

Lab test results may vary across laboratories due to differences in methodologies and reference ranges. Abnormal test results require expert interpretation. Do not self-medicate based solely on these results. Always consult a doctor to understand the test results correctly.

What is Complement 3 used for?

The Complement 3 test is done:

To diagnose autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
When unexplained symptoms are present, including persistent fatigue, joint pain or swelling, skin rashes (especially a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose), fever, or other signs suggestive of autoimmune disorders.
To evaluate the functioning of the immune system,particularly in the presence of inflammation or infection.
To detect chronic infections or inflammatory conditions that might affect complement protein levels.
To monitor the progression or remission in individuals with known autoimmune conditions.
To differentiate between types of immune responses or phases of disease activity.
If there are known risk factors like a family history of complement deficiencies or autoimmune diseases.

What does Complement 3 measure?

The Complement 3 test measures the level of complement protein C3 in the blood. By measuring the levels of C3, doctors can assess whether there is an abnormal immune response, indicating an autoimmune disorder or chronic inflammation. A low level of C3 can be a sign of conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), where the body attacks its own tissues. On the contrary, a high C3 level might suggest an acute inflammatory response or infection. This test is often used alongside other diagnostic tests to get a comprehensive picture of the immune system’s health and function.

Interpreting Complement 3 results

Interpretations

Decreased C 3 levels are associated with increased risk of auto immune disorders like SLE, recurrent infections caused by fungi and parasites, hereditary angioedema, hepatitis, malnutrition, kidney diseases
Complement proteins are increased in acute and chronic inflammation. Other common causes of increased complement activity are ulcerative colitis, thyroiditis, acute myocardial infarction, cancers like leukemia

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Complement 3

Frequently Asked Questions about Complement 3

Q. What is the Complement 3 test?

The Complement 3 test measures the levels of C3, a protein in the blood that plays a vital role in the immune system's response to infections and inflammation. It helps assess immune system activity and can aid in identifying underlying conditions such as autoimmune diseases or kidney disorders.

Q. Why is the Complement 3 test important?

This test is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring conditions that involve abnormal complement system activity, including autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), kidney diseases, and certain inflammatory conditions. It can also help assess disease activity and determine the effectiveness of ongoing treatments.

Q. How is the Complement 3 test performed?

A phlebotomist (a trained professional to perform blood draws) will clean your skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe and take blood samples from your vein using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Q. What do abnormal Complement 3 test results mean?

Low C3 levels may suggest conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), glomerulonephritis, or other autoimmune disorders, indicating the immune system is attacking the body’s own tissues. On the other hand, high C3 levels may indicate acute inflammation, infections, or active immune responses to conditions such as vasculitis or bacterial infections. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and other tests.

Q. When should I get the Complement 3 test?

The test may be recommended if you have unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, or recurrent infections that might suggest an autoimmune or inflammatory condition. It is also used to monitor the progress of diseases like lupus or kidney-related conditions.

Q. How often should I have the Complement 3 test?

The frequency of testing depends on your health condition and your doctor's recommendations. For individuals with autoimmune diseases or chronic kidney conditions, the test may be used regularly to monitor disease activity or treatment effectiveness.

Q. What causes C3 deficiency?

C3 deficiency is a rare disorder linked to at least 17 mutations in the C3 gene. It is marked by recurrent bacterial infections beginning in childhood. These mutations result in either a nonfunctional C3 protein or complete absence of the protein.

Q. What does Complement 3 (C3) do in the body?

C3 is a central protein in the complement system, a key part of the immune response. It functions to: 1. Activate other complement proteins to amplify the immune response. 2. Facilitate pathogen destruction through opsonization and membrane attack complex (MAC) formation. 3. Clear dead or damaged cells, aiding in tissue maintenance and repair. 4. Promote inflammation, helping to recruit immune cells to infection or injury sites.

Q. What other tests are related to Complement 3?

Complement 3 is often measured along with Complement 4 (C4), another protein in the complement system, to help diagnose and monitor conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Other related tests include kidney function tests, autoantibody tests, and inflammatory markers to evaluate overall immune system function.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.

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