Determination of circulating immune complexes is likely to provide information on lupus nephritis activity.
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Circulating immune complexes are detectable in a variety of systemic disorders such as rheumatologic, autoimmune, and allergic diseases, viral and bacterial infections, and malignancies.
The importance of Circulating Immune Complexes (CICs) and their relationship to various diseases has been the subject of study for many years. The formation of immune complexes is a protective and usually benign process that falls within the normal function of the immune system. The circulating immune complexes are removed from the bloodstream by several complex biochemical, enzymatic, and cellular processes. The key to all this is the complement system.
In some pathological conditions, immune complexes can initiate complement-mediated damage to various organs and tissues. This complement activation can trigger several potentially catastrophic events, including cell lysis, anaphylatoxin production, leukocyte stimulation, and macrophage activation. Significant damage can also be caused by the binding of immune complexes to cell membranes such as in some cases glomerulonephritis.
Too many laboratory methodologies have been developed to identify circulating immune complexes but none of them are considered as a reference method.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
