What is the purpose of a c1 esterase inhibitor, quantitative test?

The C1 esterase inhibitor, the quantitative test is a medical test that measures the level of C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) in the blood. C1-INH is a protein that plays an important role in regulating the activity of the complement system, which is a part of the immune system that helps to fight off infections.

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a genetic condition that affects the production and function of C1-INH. People with HAE have low levels of C1-INH or dysfunctional C1-INH, which can lead to excessive activation of the complement system and the release of chemicals that cause swelling, inflammation, and pain in various parts of the body, including the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and airways.

The C1 esterase inhibitor, the quantitative test is used to diagnose HAE, monitor the effectiveness of treatment, and determine the risk of HAE attacks. The test measures the amount of C1-INH in the blood and compares it to a normal range. Low levels of C1-INH are indicative of HAE, while normal or high levels of C1-INH suggest that the patient does not have HAE.

In addition to the C1-INH level, other tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of HAE, including the C4 complement level, which is usually low in people with HAE, and genetic testing, which can identify specific mutations in the genes that are responsible for HAE.

How is the c1 esterase inhibitor, quantitative test performed?

To perform the c1 esterase inhibitor, quantitative test, a healthcare provider will draw a blood sample from the patient's vein. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory technician will measure the amount of C1-INH in the blood using a technique called enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

ELISA is a highly sensitive and specific laboratory technique that allows for the detection and quantification of a particular protein in a biological sample. The technique involves immobilizing the target protein on a solid surface, such as a microplate, and then adding a specific antibody that binds to the protein. This antibody is usually labeled with an enzyme that produces a color or fluorescence signal when a substrate is added. The amount of signal produced is proportional to the amount of protein present in the sample.

In the case of the c1 esterase inhibitor, quantitative test, a specific antibody against C1-INH is used to capture the protein on the microplate. The amount of C1-INH in the sample is then quantified by adding an enzyme-labeled antibody that produces a signal in proportion to the

amount of C1-INH present. The laboratory technician will compare the amount of C1-INH in the patient's blood to a normal range to determine if the patient has HAE.

What other tests may be ordered in conjunction with a c1 esterase inhibitor, quantitative test?

When evaluating a patient suspected of having hereditary angioedema (HAE), a c1 esterase inhibitor, quantitative test is often ordered to measure the level of this protein in the blood. This is because HAE is caused by a deficiency in c1 esterase inhibitor, which leads to complement activation and subsequent angioedema.

However, in some cases, additional tests may be ordered in conjunction with the c1 esterase inhibitor, quantitative test to further evaluate the patient's condition. These tests may include:

1. C4 complement level: Since c1 esterase inhibitor plays a crucial role in regulating the complement system, a low level of this protein can lead to overactivation of complement, resulting in decreased levels of c4 in the blood.

2. C1q complement level: C1q is the first protein in the classical complement pathway and is activated by c1 esterase inhibitor. A deficiency in c1 esterase inhibitor can lead to decreased levels of C1q, which can be measured through a quantitative test.

3. C3 complement level: C3 is the most abundant complement protein and plays a critical role in the complement cascade. In HAE, the overactivation of complement can lead to decreased levels of C3 in the blood.

4. Factor XII level: HAE can also lead to excessive activation of the coagulation system, which can be evaluated through measurement of factor XII levels.

Overall, the decision to order additional tests will depend on the individual patient's symptoms and medical history, as well as the physician's clinical judgment.

What conditions can cause an abnormally high c1 esterase inhibitor level?

C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) is a protein that plays a crucial role in the regulation of the complement system, which is involved in the immune response. A deficiency of C1-INH can lead to hereditary angioedema, a rare but serious genetic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of swelling in various parts of the body. However, an abnormally high level of C1-INH is less common and can be associated with other medical conditions.

One condition that can cause an abnormally high level of C1-INH is the use of certain medications, particularly angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which are commonly prescribed for hypertension and heart failure. These drugs can interfere with the breakdown of C1-INH, leading to an accumulation of the protein in the blood.

Another possible cause of elevated C1-INH levels is liver disease, particularly cirrhosis. The liver produces C1-INH, and impaired liver function can result in an overproduction of the protein, leading to elevated levels in the bloodstream.

In some cases, an increase in C1-INH may be a normal response to inflammation or infection. However, persistent elevation of C1-INH levels may be a sign of an underlying medical condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Quantitative measurement of C1-INH levels can be performed through laboratory testing, which may help identify the underlying cause of elevated levels. Treatment options will depend on the specific condition causing the elevatedC1-INH levels, and may include discontinuing medications, managing liver disease, or treating underlying medical conditions.

Are there any special requirements for getting a quantitative c1 esterase inhibitor test in Delhi?

Yes, there are some special requirements to get a quantitative c1 esterase inhibitor test in Delhi. This test is essential to diagnose hereditary angioedema, a rare genetic disorder that causes swelling in the body, including the throat, face, and extremities.

To get this test done, you need to prepare yourself by ensuring that you are well-hydrated, as dehydration can affect the accuracy of the test results. It is recommended that you avoid consuming any food or drinks for at least eight hours before the test.

You also need to collect a blood sample for the test. You can either visit a pathology lab or opt for a home sample collection service, which is more convenient and affordable. The blood sample will be analyzed to measure the level of c1 esterase inhibitor protein in your blood.

It is important to note that this test requires specialized equipment and expertise to perform, so it is important to choose a reputable pathology lab or home sample collection service provider. You should also discuss any medical conditions or medications you are taking with your healthcare provider before the test.

In summary, to get a quantitative c1 esterase inhibitor test in Delhi, you need to prepare yourself by staying hydrated and fasting for at least eight hours prior to the test. You should choose a reputable pathology lab or home sample collection service provider to collect your blood sample and discuss any medical conditions or medications with your healthcare provider before the test. With careful preparation and proper execution, you can ensure accurate and reliable test results

DESCRIPTION – diagnosis of C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency. The C1-INH test assesses you for hereditary angioedema. The C1-INH test is also used to learn how you are responding to treatment for autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus. A blood sample is taken. This is most often taken through a vein.

METHODOLOGY – immune-turbidimetry

TURN AROUND TIME – 1-4 days

SPECIMEN REQUIERED –

COLLECT – serum separator tube

SPECIMEN PREPARATION – separate the serum from cells within 2 hours of collection. Transfer three 1 ml aliquots of serum to individual transport tube and freeze immediately

STORAGE/TRANSPORT TEMPERATURE – critical frozen

STABILITY – refer to individual component

UNACCEPTABLE CONDITION – non-frozen specimens

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS – clinical history is mandatory