Test Name

C3

Test Code

271

Unit

mg/dL

Station

Chemistry

Synonym Name/Abbreviation

Complement C₃

CPT Code

86160

Performing Facility

American Medical Labs, Herzliya
Pituah

Analyzer

Roche cobas 6000

Test Method

Immunoturbidimetric assay

AML Preferred Tube

Serum

Storage Instructions

Refrigerated.

Stability:

4 days 15 to 25 ^oC

8 days 2 to 8 ^oC

8 days -15 to-25 ^oC

Min. Volume

1 mL

Turn-Around-Time

One day

Intended Use

Quantitation of C₃ is used to detect individuals
with inborn deficiency of this factor or those with immunologic disease in
whom complement is consumed at an increased rate. These include lupus
erythematosus, chronic active hepatitis, certain chronic infections,
poststreptococcal infections, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis,
and others.  Increased levels
are found in numerous inflammatory states as an acute phase response.
Decreased levels are found in uremia, chronic liver diseases, anorexia
nervosa, and celiac disease.

Limitations

Detects both biologically active and inactive C3.

Measuring range: 50-300
mg/dL

Patient Preparation

No specific instructions
needed

Reasons for Rejection

Excessive lipemia (>1500 mg/dL) significantly increases
the apparent C₃
concentration.

Adult Reference Ranges

Male and Female: 90 – 180
mg/dL