Test Overview
Nephelometry
Investigating an undetectable total complement level and investigating individuals with increased susceptibility to bacterial infections. Patients with C5 deficiency haved a marked increase in the incidence of autoimmune disorders and have increased susceptibility to bacterial infection. Congenital deficiency patients have values near zero.
10.6 - 26.3 mg/dL
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
The molecule may be dysfunctional with normal values but with ineffective white cell chemotaxis.
Test Details
2 - 6 days
- Complement C5
- Fifth Component of Complement
Specimen Requirements
Collect blood in a red top or SST tube from a fasting patient. Centrifuge, aliquot serum into plastic vial and freeze.
Fasting specimen preferred but not required
Additional Information
The Complement, Total Hemolytic (CH50) assay should be used as a screen for suspected complement deficiencies before ordering individual complement component assays. A deficiency of an individual component of the complement cascade will result in an undetectable total complement level. Test sent to Mayo Medical Laboratories.