CH50 is a functional assay that measures the overall activity of the classical complement pathway, a crucial part of the innate immune system. The test evaluates the ability of a patient’s serum to lyse antibody-sensitized sheep red blood cells, which requires the coordinated action of complement components C1 through C9. A normal CH50 value indicates that all components of the classical pathway are present and functional, whereas a decreased CH50 suggests a deficiency or dysfunction in one or more of these components.
In clinical and research settings, CH50 is primarily used to diagnose and monitor complement system disorders, including inherited deficiencies (such as C2 or C4 deficiency) and acquired conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune diseases. It is particularly useful for assessing disease activity in lupus, where low CH50 levels may reflect ongoing complement consumption due to immune complex formation. Additionally, CH50 is used to evaluate patients with recurrent infections that may be linked to complement deficiencies. In research, CH50 helps investigate the role of the complement system in inflammation, autoimmunity, and infectious diseases, as well as the efficacy of complement-targeting therapies.
This product is manufactured in Italy by Diametra.
| Size | 1 x 96 Well |
| Sensitivity | Cut-Off |
| Incubation Time | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Sample Type | Serum |
| Storage | 2-8°C |
| Alternative Names | Total Hemolytic Complement |