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Test Code
CH50
Test Name
Complement, CH50
CPT Codes
86162
Expected Turnaround Time
4 - 7 days
Clinical Utility
Deficient or decreased levels of serum complement activity of the classical pathway are associated with a number of diseases. A normal CH50 assay indicates that C1 through C9 are present and functional in the serum being tested. Although CH50 can be used to assess the integrity of the classical pathway, it must not be used as a sensitive test for in vivo complement fixation. In vitro degradation can also cause low CH50 activity.
Specimen and Container Info

Preferred Specimen Type: Serum

Desired Specimen Volume: 2 mL

Preferred Collection Container: Gold Top, Serum Separator
Collection Instructions
Processing and Submission Instructions
  1. Centrifuge specimen as soon as possible after draw.
  2. Transfer serum to an aliquot tube and freeze.

 
Transport Instructions

Transport specimen submerged in dry ice.
Stability Requirements

Frozen

Specimens should be stored at -70°C or lower. 
Causes for Rejection

Hemolyzed specimens should be avoided.
Methodology
Turbidimetric
Reference Intervals

42-95 U/mL
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Testing Schedule
Routine, 1 time per week
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
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