Total Complement Function Assay
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Complement – Total (CH50), Serum
Test ID: CH50
Test
Aliases/Synonyms
Method
Spectrophotometry
Report Includes
Complement - Total (CH50)
Specimens
Serum
Clinical Utility
CH50 is a screen for complement deficiencies or significant activation. Measures the relative activity of the total classical pathway (C1-C9).
Complement activity is very labile and reliable results depend on correct handling of the specimen.
Test Version
22-Apr-2020
Specimen
Specimens
Serum
Sample Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Collection & Handling
Handling Information
Allow filled tube to clot at 22 – 37°C for 30 – 60 minutes. Centrifuge at room temperature. Aliquot into storage tube and freeze as soon as possible. Store and send frozen.
Additional Information
CH50 may be decreased by: delayed separation of serum, insufficient clotting, prolonged storage at room temperature, use of plasma, presence of immune complexes, cryoglobulins, bacteria or particulates.
Stability
| Frozen | 14 days |
|---|
Additional Stability Information
Stable at least 30 days when stored at -80°C
Rejection Criteria
| Hemolysis | Gross |
|---|---|
| Lipemia | Present |
| Specimen | Plasma |
Test Version
22-Apr-2020
Performance / Interpretation
Method
Spectrophotometry
Turnaround Time
5 days
Results
| Name | Units | Reference Range | Conversion Factor | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Complement - Total | U/mL |
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Analytical range 14 - 105 U/mL. Results less than or greater than these limits will be reported as such.
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Test Version
22-Apr-2020
Interface / Setup
HL7 Interface Codes
| Order Code | Result Codes | Units |
|---|---|---|
| CH50 | 8787CH50 | U/mL |
Test Version
22-Apr-2020