Department

Immunology

Local code : CIN

Preferred Sample Type

Suitable Specimen Types

Serum

5-10 ml

Sample Processing in Laboratory

Usual

Sample Preparation

centrifuge

Turnaround Time

7 days

Sample Stability

Stable at 4 C for 8 days, If longer storage is anticipated then samples may be frozen prior to analysis.

C1 esterase inhibitor

General Information

Some indications: Hereditary Angioedema

To improve the service to our users we have upgraded the instrumentation for this assay from Binding Site SPA analyser to Binding Site OPTILITE analyser. This has not affected the methodology used or the ranges for this assay. However, this assay now lies outside the scope of our accreditation by UKAS. UKAS have been informed and will assess the assay as an extension to scope at their next inspection visit October 2018. This is normal procedure when a change from one analyser platform to another occurs.”

Patient Preparation

none

Notes

To allow correct interpretation of results concurrent complement C3 and C4 levels should be requested.

Low levels of C1 inhibitor may indicate Hereditary Angioedma. These cases should be discussed with an immunologist for possible referral and further investigation. Normal levels of C1 inhibitor but having a clinical picture of C1 inhibitor deficiency should be investigated for functional C1 inhibitor defects.

Reference Range

0.15-0.35g/L

PRU handbook in clinical Immunochemistry . A.Milford Ward. J.Sheldon et al 9th edition. 2007

Specifications

EQA Scheme?: Yes
EQA Status:
Pilot Scheme