Complement Total (CH50) Blood Test

Also Known As

C1, C1q, C2, C3, C4, CH50, CH100, Complement, or Total Complement

The Purpose of a CH50 Test

Your immune system relies on proteins in the complement system to do its job in keeping you strong and healthy by protecting your body from germs. The nine major proteins are numbered (C1-C9) and can be measured independently, but the CH50 measures them all at once. This helps diagnose or monitor autoimmune disorders or infections.

What Does the CH50 Measure?

This test will determine if you have enough of the major complement proteins in your body to support a healthy immune system.

Who Should Take a CH50 Lab Test?

Your physician may recommend a CH50 test if you have (or are suspected of having) an autoimmune disorder such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. This test is also beneficial if you are being treated for a disease associated with a weakened immune system, or if you have persistent or chronic infections or inflammation.

CH50 Complement Preparation

There are no special preparations or instructions for taking a CH50 blood test.

CH50 Test Results

Results in the CH50 normal range indicate that your complement protein levels are adequate for your needs.

Low CH50 levels may suggest you have lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, nutritional deficiency, infection, kidney disease, or other issues that may require further testing. For instance, you could individually test your C3 or C4 protein levels to rule out the possibility of lupus.

If you have CH50 high levels, you may need further testing for cancer (such as leukemia) or ulcerative colitis.

A CH50 lab test gives you valuable information you can use to get the proper treatment, which could include lifestyle modifications or medication. If you need help determining your next steps, schedule a telehealth visit with one of our board-certified physicians.

Where Can I Get a Complement Total CH50 Test Near Me?

Take your CH50 complement blood test at one of our partner Labcorp or Quest Diagnostic labs across the country. With more than 4,000 locations, you get blood testing with ease and convenience.

Here’s how the process works:

Step 1: Buy your test online and download the lab order. (You don’t need a physician’s approval to order a test, depending on the state you live in.)

Step 2: Visit our lab locator to find the facility nearest you and schedule the blood work.

Step 3: Bring the lab order with you to your appointment.

Step 4: Results are sent to your secure Personalabs portal, usually within 2 to 10 business days. (If you need a specific turnaround time, contact us and we will reach out to the lab on your behalf, as times can vary.)

Get the data you need to take control of your healthcare decisions. Order your Personalabs test today.