Circulating immune complexes, CIC

C-reactive Protein (CRP)

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

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation or infection in the body. It is a member of the pentraxin family of proteins and plays a crucial role in the acute phase response, which is part of the innate immune system's response to injury, infection, or inflammation.

Structure and Functions of CRP

CRP is a ring-shaped pentameric protein composed of five identical subunits. Its structure allows it to bind to various molecules and cell surfaces, facilitating the immune response. CRP's main functions include:

1. Opsonization: CRP can bind to pathogens, such as bacteria or fungi, marking them for recognition and removal by immune cells like macrophages.
2. Activation of the complement system: CRP can initiate the complement cascade, which is a series of enzyme reactions that help eliminate pathogens and promote inflammation.
3. Modulation of inflammatory responses: CRP can bind to various receptors on immune cells, influencing their function and promoting the release of inflammatory cytokines.

Table 1: Components of CRP

CRP levels in the blood can increase rapidly in response to inflammation or infection, making it a useful biomarker for detecting and monitoring these conditions. However, elevated CRP levels can also occur in other conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, cancer, and obesity.

The Role of CIC

CIC (Ciclosporin) plays a crucial role in the treatment of various medical conditions. It is an immunosuppressant drug commonly used to prevent rejection after organ transplantation and to manage autoimmune diseases.

Indications for CIC Analysis

Analysis of CIC levels is essential in the following scenarios:

• Monitoring post-transplant patients: CIC levels are monitored in patients who have undergone organ transplantation to ensure proper immunosuppression and prevent organ rejection.
• Management of autoimmune disorders: CIC is prescribed for the treatment of autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and certain types of kidney diseases to suppress the overactive immune system.
• Evaluation of therapeutic response: CIC levels are analyzed to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and adjust the dosage as needed.

Preparation for the Analysis Procedure

The procedure for giving blood to determine the CIC level is relatively simple and does not require special preparation measures. However, there are several recommendations that should be considered:

• Diet: In most cases, the CIC blood test can be taken fasting or after a meal. However, in some situations (e.g., for a comprehensive biochemical blood test), an 8-12 hour fast before blood collection may be required.
• Avoiding physical exertion: Before the test, it is advisable to avoid intense physical activity, as it may affect the test results.
• Abstaining from alcohol and smoking: It is recommended to abstain from alcohol and smoking a day before the test, as these can impact the CIC level and other blood parameters.
• Maintaining hydration: Maintaining proper hydration is important for facilitating the blood collection process. Inadequate fluid intake can make the venipuncture procedure more difficult.
• Informing about medication: Some medications can affect the CIC level and other blood parameters. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.

The Analysis Procedure

Blood collection for the CIC test is typically performed from a vein in the arm's bend. The procedure takes a few minutes and is carried out by a healthcare professional. After the venipuncture, minor bleeding or bruising may occur, which usually resolves on its own within a few days.

Turnaround Time

1 working day, excluding the day of sample collection.

Several factors can influence the results of the CIC blood test, leading to inaccuracies or misinterpretation. Some significant factors include:

• Hydration: The level of hydration can affect the concentration of CIC in the blood. Dehydration may lead to an increased CIC level due to decreased blood volume, while excessive fluid intake may result in an artificially lowered level.
• Altitude: Living at high altitudes, where the air is thinner and contains less oxygen, can stimulate the body to produce more red blood cells and CIC to compensate for hypoxia (oxygen deficiency).
• Smoking: Smoking tobacco can increase the CIC level, as carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke binds to CIC, reducing its ability to carry oxygen, which stimulates the body to produce more CIC.
• Medication and supplements: Some medications and dietary supplements can affect the CIC level. For example, iron-containing supplements may increase the CIC level, while certain chemotherapeutic drugs may lower it.
• Physical activity: Intense physical exertion can temporarily elevate the CIC level due to an increased concentration of red blood cells in the bloodstream.
• Nutrition: Inadequate intake of nutrients essential for CIC production, such as iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid, can lead to a decrease in CIC levels.
• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the blood volume increases, which can lead to a physiological decrease in the concentration of CIC.
• Time of day and laboratory conditions: The CIC level may vary slightly throughout the day. It is also important to adhere to laboratory standards for accurate results.

CIC Analysis

CIC (Chronic Idiopathic Constipation) analysis is typically a part of a comprehensive evaluation for digestive disorders. It involves a combination of tests and examinations to assess bowel function and rule out other potential causes of constipation. The analysis may include:

• Medical history review: A detailed discussion of symptoms, duration, and potential contributing factors.
• Physical examination: An assessment of the abdomen, rectum, and other relevant areas.
• Blood tests: Checking for underlying conditions that may contribute to constipation, such as thyroid disorders or electrolyte imbalances.
• Imaging studies: Techniques like abdominal X-rays, CT scans, or MRI may be used to visualize the digestive tract and identify any structural abnormalities.
• Anorectal manometry: This test evaluates the function of the muscles involved in bowel movements.
• Balloon expulsion test: This test assesses the ability to expel a balloon from the rectum, which can indicate pelvic floor dysfunction.

The CIC analysis helps healthcare providers understand the underlying causes of chronic constipation and develop appropriate treatment plans. It is an essential step in managing this condition effectively and improving the patient's quality of life.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/digestive-diseases/news/understanding-the-needs-and-burdens-of-patients-with-cic-and-ibs-c/mac-20541406
https://www.cbic.org/CBIC/CIC-Certification/About-the-Examination.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7785751/
https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(23)00513-9/fulltext

Important Note:

It is crucial to remember that the information provided here is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience pain or an exacerbation of your condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic tests and appropriate treatment. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of 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 different methods and units of measurement for similar tests.