PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
Anti-human C3 antibodies when mixed with samples containing C3, form
insoluble complexes. These complexes cause an absorbance change,
dependent upon the C3 concentration of the patient sample, that can be
quantified by comparison from a calibrator of know C3 concentration.
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
C3 is the functional link between classical and alternative pathways of
activation and it is the most concentrate component of the complement system
in human plasma. Hepatic cells synthesize C3, although bacterial endotoxins
induce synthesis by monocytes and fibroblasts.
Concentration C3 increases as a consequence of an acute-phase response
(trauma, surgery or inflammatory process), biliary obstruction and focal
glomerulosclerosis. Decreasing C3 levels are consequence of a genetic
deficiency that may increase the risk of infections particularly with encapsulated
bacteria, or acquired deficiency that causes vascular disorders and severe
infections.
STORAGE AND STABILITY
All the components of the kit are stable until the expiration date on the label
when stored tightly closed at 2-8ºC and contaminations are prevented during
their use. Do not use reagents over the expiration date.
Reagent deterioration: The presence of particles and turbidity. Do not use.
Do not freeze; frozen Antibody or Diluent could change the funcitionality of the
test.
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
- SPIN 800 autoanalyzer.
- Laboratory equipment.
SAMPLES
Fresh serum or plasma. EDTA or heparin should be used as anticoagulant.
Stable 7 days at 2-8ºC or 3 months at –20ºC.
The samples with presence of fibrin should be centrifuged.
Do not use highly hemolized or lipemic samples.
REFERENCE VALUES5
Neonates: Between 70 - 196 mg/dL.
Adults: Between 90 – 180 mg/dL.
Each laboratory should establish its own reference range.
QUALITY CONTROL
Control sera are recommended to monitor the performance of manual and
automated assay procedures. Spinreact PROT CONTROL (Cod.:1102004).
Each laboratory should establish its own Quality Control scheme and corrective
actions if controls do not meet the acceptable tolerances.