Complement Test Introduction
What is a complement test ? Complement test is a blood test that measures the activity of a group of proteins in the bloodstream. These proteins make up the complement system, which is one part of the immune system. The complement system helps antibodies fight off infections and destroy substances that are foreign to the body. However, when the following conditions occur in the complement system: (1) abnormal function of
complement components and activation products, (2) production of autoantibody to complement protein, (3) mutations in the complement gene, it may lead to autoimmune diseases and other inflammatory reactions. Complement tests contribute to determining whether
deficiencies or abnormalities in the complement system are causing or contributing to the patient’s disease or condition.