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HelpOrder Code C3FX C3 Complement, Functional, Serum
Reporting Name
C3 Complement, Functional, SUseful For
Diagnosis of C3 deficiency
Investigation of a patient with undetectable total complement level
Performing Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
Specimen Type
Serum RedOrdering Guidance
The total complement assay (COM / Complement, Total, Serum) should be used as a screen for suspected complement deficiencies before ordering individual complement component assays. A deficiency of an individual component of the complement cascade will result in an undetectable total complement level.
Specimen Required
Patient Preparation: Fasting preferred
Supplies: Sarstedt 5 mL Aliquot Tube (T914)
Collection Container/Tube: Red top
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Immediately after specimen collection, place the tube on wet ice.
2. Centrifuge and aliquot serum into plastic vial.
3. Immediately freeze specimen.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serum Red | Frozen | 14 days |
Reference Values
21-50 U/mL
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
CPT Code Information
86161
Method Description
C3 complement activity is measured by mixing patient serum with a C3-deficient serum. The lytic activity of the serum mixture is tested against sensitized, labeled liposomes. If lysis occurs, the patient serum must be the source of the C3. The target liposomes are a commercial reagent (WAKO total complement CH50), and the assay is performed on Advia XPT.(Unpublished Mayo method)
Reject Due To
| Gross hemolysis | OK |
| Gross lipemia | Reject |
| Gross icterus | OK |
Method Name
Automated Liposome Lysis Assay