Definition
Complement component 4 is a blood test that measures the activity of a certain protein that is part of the complement system. The complement system is a group of proteins that move freely through your bloodstream. The proteins work with your immune system and play a role in the development of inflammation.
There are nine major complement proteins. They are labeled C1 through C9. This test measures C4.
See also:
Alternative Names
C4
Why the C4 is Performed
C3 and C4 are the most commonly measured complement components. Complement activity may be measured to determine how severe a disease is or if treatment is working.
A complement test may be used to monitor patients with an autoimmune disorder. For example, patients with active lupus erythematosus may have lower-than-normal levels of the complement proteins C3 and C4.
Complement activity varies throughout the body. For example, in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, complement activity may be normal or higher-than-normal in the blood, but much lower-than-normal in the joint fluid.
How the C4 is Performed
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with blood.
Next, the health care provider gently inserts a needle into the vein. The blood collects into an airtight vial or tube attached to the needle. The elastic band is removed from your arm.
Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.
In infants or young children, a sharp tool called a lancet may be used to puncture the skin and make it bleed. The blood collects into a small glass tube called a pipette, or onto a slide or test strip. A bandage may be placed over the area if there is any bleeding.
The sample is then sent to the laboratory where the amount of C4 is measured.
How to Prepare for the C4
No special preparation is needed.
How the C4 Will Feel
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
If your child is to have this test performed it may be helpful to explain how the test will feel, and even practice or demonstrate on a doll. The more familiar your child is with what will happen to them, and the purpose for the procedure, the less anxiety he or she will feel.
Risks
- Excessive bleeding
- Fainting or feeling light-headed
- Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
- Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
- Multiple punctures to locate veins
Normal Results
- Males: 12 to 72 mg/dL
- Females: 13 to 75 mg/dL
Note: mg/dL = milligrams per deciliter
What Abnormal Results Mean
Increased complement activity may be seen in:
- Cancer
- Ulcerative colitis
Decreased complement activity may be seen in:
- Hereditary angioedema
- Bacterial infections (especially Neisseria)
- Cirrhosis
- Glomerulonephritis
- Hepatitis
- Lupus nephritis
- Malnutrition
- Kidney transplant rejection
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
