Complement component C3 (CC3)

Complement Component C3 (C3c)

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Complement Component C3 (C3c) is a central protein of the complement system, which is a crucial part of the immune system. The complement system is responsible for defending the body against pathogens and removing damaged or abnormal cells.

Structure and Functions of C3c

C3c is a component of the larger C3 protein, which is produced by various cells, including liver cells and macrophages. C3 is a key player in the complement cascade, a series of enzymatic reactions that lead to the formation of membrane attack complexes, which can punch holes in the cell membranes of pathogens or abnormal cells, causing their destruction.

When C3 is activated, it is cleaved into two fragments: C3a and C3b. C3b plays a crucial role in the complement cascade, while C3a acts as an anaphylatoxin, promoting inflammation and attracting immune cells to the site of infection or injury.

C3c is a marker of complement activation and can be used to assess the status of the complement system in various clinical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, infections, and transplant rejection episodes.

The Role of Complement C3 (Cc3)

Complement C3 (Cc3) plays a crucial role in the complement system, which is a vital part of the innate immune response. The complement system is a complex network of proteins that helps to eliminate pathogens, regulate inflammatory responses, and facilitate the clearance of immune complexes and cellular debris.

Indications for Complement C3 (Cc3) Testing

Testing for Complement C3 (Cc3) levels is typically recommended in the following situations:

• Evaluation of complement system disorders: Abnormal levels of Complement C3 can indicate various complement system disorders, such as inherited or acquired complement deficiencies, which can increase the risk of infections and autoimmune diseases.
• Monitoring of autoimmune diseases: In conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, and vasculitis, Complement C3 levels can be monitored to assess disease activity and guide treatment decisions.
• Investigation of recurrent infections: Low levels of Complement C3 can increase susceptibility to infections, especially those caused by encapsulated bacteria. Testing may be warranted in individuals with recurrent infections to identify potential underlying complement deficiencies.
• Assessment of kidney diseases: Abnormal Complement C3 levels can be associated with certain kidney diseases, such as membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) and C3 glomerulopathy.

Preparation for the Test

There are a few recommendations to consider before undergoing a C3 (Cc3) Componenta test:

• Hydration: It's essential to maintain adequate hydration levels before the test to facilitate blood draw.
• Medication: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you're taking, as some drugs may affect C3 levels.
• Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, may influence C3 levels and should be disclosed to your healthcare provider.

Test Procedure

The C3 (Cc3) Componenta test involves a simple blood draw, typically from a vein in the arm. This procedure is performed by a trained healthcare professional and takes a few minutes to complete.

Complement Component 3 (C3)

Complement component 3 (C3) is a protein that plays a crucial role in the complement system, which is part of the immune system. The C3 test measures the level of this protein in the blood. It is often included as part of a comprehensive panel to assess the functioning of the complement system.

The C3 test can be performed on a serum or plasma sample obtained from a blood draw. The results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or grams per liter (g/L). The specific reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories.

Sources:

https://www.verywellhealth.com/c3-complement-test-5104974
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/tests/complement-component-3-c3
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003539.htm
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=167&ContentID=complement_c3_blood
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22138-c3-complement-blood-test
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-complement-c3-test
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Complement_component_3

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any symptoms or a flare-up of a medical condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic tests and treatment. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment. To obtain the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.