DIAGNOSTIC TEST PANEL 570
Complement Activation
Diagnostic test panel for Complement function (classical, alternative, lectin), C3, C4, C3d, C1q. For Complement system investigation.
Indication
Complement system investigation
Interpretation
The complement system is part of the immune system. It enhances the antibody's function and contributes to bacterial killing. Three activation pathways are known for the complement system: the classical, the alternative and the lectin pathway, which can be activated by MBL (mannan-binding lectin). The classical pathway is activated by immune complexes, as is the case with SLE. C1q then binds C1r and C1s, which initiates a cascade where C2 and C4 form a complex that cleaves C3. The alternative pathway is activated by complexation between C3 and factor B through a reaction that preferably occurs on the surface of bacteria. The MBL pathway is activated by a reaction between MBL and certain sugars, which are found only in certain bacteria.
When measuring complement activation in vitro, you get a measure of the patient's ability to activate the complement system through the current pathway. The degree of activation becomes a measure of the serum concentration of the components involved in the activation pathway.
If the patient completely lacks a component, the activation becomes zero. In a patient with active SLE disease, activation of the classic pathway often occurs. This leads to the consumption of the constituent components (C1q, C1s, C1r, C2, C4, C3, and C5-9). Serum from this patient is likely to have impaired ability to activate the classical pathway in vitro. Since some components are common to the other pathways, their ability to activate these paths may be impaired secondary due to the consumption of the components in the classical pathway. Complement activation is the most common cause of low levels of C3 and C4 in the circulation. Hereditary total deficiencies of complement factors (except for MBL) are rare.
Tests included in panel
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How to order
This test panel is available worldwide for hospitals, clinics, and physicians.
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Print and complete the request form
Download the request form. Clearly state the name and phone number of the referring hospital, clinic, or physician. -
Prepare your samples
Serum: At least 1 mL serum (plain serum tubes without additives).
EDTA Plasma: At least 1 mL blood plasma (EDTA tubes).
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Send samples and request form
Within Sweden
Send samples frozen to:
Envelopes and smaller boxes:
Wieslab AB, Box 50117, 20211 Malmö, Sweden
Larger boxes and frozen samples:
Wieslab AB, Lundavägen 151, 21224 Malmö, Sweden
International
Send samples frozen to:
Wieslab AB, Lundavägen 151, 21224 Malmö, Sweden
Last updated: 2025-08-18
