The CH50 blood test is a laboratory test that measures the activity of the complement system, which is part of the body’s immune system. The complement system is a complex network of proteins that help to identify and destroy foreign substances in the body, such as bacteria and viruses.

The CH50 test measures the total activity of the complement system by assessing how well it can destroy a sample of red blood cells in a test tube. The “CH50” stands for “total complement hemolytic activity,” which refers to the ability of the complement system to cause the destruction (hemolysis) of red blood cells.

A low CH50 result may indicate a deficiency in the complement system, which can increase the risk of infections and other immune-related diseases. It can also be a sign of certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, which can cause the complement system to become overactive and depleted.

The CH50 blood test is a simple procedure that involves taking a small sample of blood from a vein in the arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. Results are usually available within a few days.

The CH50 blood test is often used in combination with other tests to diagnose and monitor autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. In some cases, additional tests may be ordered to confirm a diagnosis or determine the specific type of autoimmune disease present.

In summary, the CH50 blood test is a useful tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of autoimmune diseases and complement deficiencies. If you have symptoms of an autoimmune disease or are at risk of developing one, talk to your healthcare provider about whether this blood test may be appropriate for you.