Complement Total (CH50) Test
Short Name: CH50 Test
Also known as: Complement Total Test, CH50 Test, Complement Hemolytic Activity Test
Complement Total (CH50) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹11,000. Uses Liposome Assay on Serum samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 2-3 weeks after sample collection. Sample must reach the lab by the 7th of the month.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR
Consultant Physician · Reg: 8052
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
To evaluate the overall functioning of the complement system, diagnose autoimmune diseases, monitor kidney disorders, and assess treatment effectiveness for complement-related conditions.
- Test Code
- 343
- Price
- ₹11,000
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Reports are typically available within 2-3 weeks after sample collection. Sample must reach the lab by the 7th of the month.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Liposome Assay
Sample Collection
Duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be avoided prior to the test.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using standard venipuncture techniques.
Report Delivery
Apply pressure to the puncture site to stop bleeding and keep the area clean. No specific post-test restrictions are required.
Timeline: Reports are typically available within 2-3 weeks after sample collection. Sample must reach the lab by the 7th of the month.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
To evaluate the overall functioning of the complement system, diagnose autoimmune diseases, monitor kidney disorders, and assess treatment effectiveness for complement-related conditions.
How to Prepare
- Ensure the Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is duly filled and signed.
- Avoid taking certain medications as advised by your doctor before sample collection.
- After collection, separate serum within 1 hour and freeze immediately. Ship frozen and do not thaw.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR — MBBS, MD (General Medicine) · Reg. No. 8052
"The CH50 test is essential for assessing complement system functionality, which plays a key role in immune response and inflammation. It aids in diagnosing autoimmune disorders like lupus and monitoring treatment efficacy, especially in conditions with recurrent infections or kidney issues."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Improper sample handling, such as failure to freeze within 1 hour.
- Thawed or partially thawed samples.
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 1.5 mL).
- Missing or incomplete consent form.
Understanding Your Results
Low CH50 Activity
May indicate complement deficiency, consumption in autoimmune diseases like SLE, or genetic defects. Associated with increased risk of infections and autoimmune conditions.
Normal CH50 Activity
Suggests normal complement system function, with no significant deficiencies or consumption. However, clinical correlation is essential.
High CH50 Activity
May be seen in acute phase response, certain inflammatory conditions, or as a compensatory mechanism. Further evaluation may be needed to identify the cause.
If you experience symptoms of autoimmune diseases (e.g., joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes), recurrent infections, or if your CH50 test results are abnormal, consult your doctor promptly for further evaluation and management.
Limitations
- ⚠Does not differentiate between specific complement components; additional tests may be needed.
- ⚠Results may be affected by other medical conditions or factors outside the complement system.
- ⚠Turnaround time is 2-3 weeks, which may delay diagnosis in urgent cases.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or discomfort at the puncture site.
- ●Rare risk of infection or excessive bleeding.
- ●No significant risks associated with the test itself beyond standard blood draw.
Interfering Factors
- ●Medications that affect complement levels, such as immunosuppressants.
- ●Sample handling errors, like improper freezing or thawing.
- ●Recent infections or inflammatory conditions that can alter results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CH50 test?
Why is the CH50 test done?
How is the CH50 test performed?
What is the cost of the CH50 test in India?
Do I need to fast before the CH50 test?
What are the risks of the CH50 test?
How long does it take to get CH50 test results?
What do low CH50 levels indicate?
What do high CH50 levels indicate?
Can medications affect CH50 test results?
Is the CH50 test covered by insurance?
What should I do if my CH50 test results are abnormal?
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