C3 Complement
C3 Complement
This test is done to measure the amount of C3 proteins in the blood. C3 proteins are an important part of your complement system, which provides information about your immune system. C3 protein is the most abundant protein in the complement system which helps kill disease-causing bacteria and viruses.
The Complement System helps the immune system to produce antibodies and make them more effective. The system eliminates dead cells and other wastes from the body, and recognizes and neutralizes bacteria and viruses.
C3 complement test helps your healthcare provider diagnose autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It also helps to monitor treatment for an autoimmune disease.
C3 Complement test is also known as :
C3, complement antigen, complement activity C3, complement component 3
Symptoms Of Lupus
Skin rash (a butterfly rash) across your cheeks
Mouth ulcers
Hair loss
Headache
Fever
Joint pain and swelling
Extreme tiredness
Pain in the chest
Weight loss
Hearing loss
Vision loss
Swollen lymph nodes
What Is a C3 Complement Test Used For?
C3 Complement test is recommended in the following conditions:
Recurrent bacterial infections
Diagnose autoimmune disorders e.g. lupus
Monitor immune complex-related conditions such as glomerulonephritis (GN) and vasculitis
Determine treatment plan for an autoimmune disease
Test preparation
This test does not require any special preparation. However, it is advisable to inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, vitamins, and supplements you might be taking prior to taking this test
Interpretation of the Test Results
Normal range of C3 proteins is 75 to 175 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). The normal range of C3 proteins typically differs based on age, gender, and overall health conditions.
Deviations from normal levels indicates the following:
A. Lower than normal levels could mean:
· An autoimmune disease such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or Crohn’s disease and increased risk of developing any of these conditions
· C3 protein deficiency, leading to recurrent bacterial infections
· Hemolytic anemia
· Hepatitis (Inflammation of the liver), including Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C
· Chronic kidney disease
· Hereditary angioedema
· Liver disease that results from excessive alcohol consumption
· Organ rejections from transplants e.g. kidney transplant
· Malnutrition
· Septicemia (Blood poisoning)
B. Higher than normal levels could mean:
· Heart attack and other heart problems
· Certain types of cancer
· Ulcerative colitis
· Thyroid disease
Sarcoidosis (Inflammatory disease)
FAQs
How is the sample collected for C3 Complement test?
A blood sample is collected by inserting a fine needle in a vein in your arm. Usually, the entire procedure does not take more than 5 minutes
What are the risks associated with C3 Complement test?
This test involves negligible risk. Slight tenderness or soreness might develop at the place where the needle was inserted. This usually resolves on its own after a while. Rarely, the sight can become infected. Some people may experience temporary dizziness or fainting after their blood is taken
When can I expect to get my C3 Complement test results?
Results of this test can be available within couple of days to a week’s time. Test results might be mailed or made available online through health portals. Your doctor might also contact you by phone or email to go over your test findings or to arrange a follow-up appointment
My C3 component blood test results are high. What does that mean?
When your test results show higher-than-normal C3 levels, it could indicate that the immune system is active right after an infection or injury
What might affect my test results?
Increased levels of lipids (lipaemia) or the destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis) may affect your test results
Related tests
Tests At Lupin Diagnostics