Systemic Vasculitis Blood Test

What is Systemic Vasculitis?

Systemic vasculitis is a group of autoimmune disorders characterized by inflammation of blood vessels throughout the body. It is caused by the immune system attacking blood vessel walls, often producing anti-C1q antibodies that lead to decreased complement C1q levels and vascular damage. The Complement Component C1q test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly measures this critical immune protein reduced in active vasculitis.

RECOMMENDED TEST Complement Component C1q
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What causes systemic vasculitis?

Systemic vasculitis is caused by an autoimmune response where the immune system mistakenly attacks blood vessel walls throughout the body. The body produces autoantibodies, particularly anti-C1q antibodies, that target complement proteins essential for normal immune function. This autoimmune attack triggers inflammation that damages blood vessels of various sizes, leading to restricted blood flow and potential organ damage. The exact trigger for this immune system malfunction is not always clear, but it can be associated with infections, certain medications, or other underlying autoimmune conditions.

What is the best test for systemic vasculitis?

The Complement Component C1q test is the most important test for systemic vasculitis because it directly measures levels of the C1q protein that becomes depleted when the body produces anti-C1q antibodies. These antibodies are closely associated with active vascular inflammation and tissue damage in vasculitis. Low C1q levels combined with clinical symptoms strongly indicate active disease. This test is valuable not only for initial diagnosis but also for monitoring disease activity during treatment. Additional tests like inflammatory markers (ESR and CRP), complete blood count, and organ-specific tests may be ordered alongside C1q testing to provide a comprehensive assessment of disease severity and organ involvement.

When should I get tested for systemic vasculitis?

You should get tested if you experience unexplained fever, fatigue, and weight loss along with signs of organ involvement such as skin rashes or lesions, numbness or weakness in limbs, joint pain, or breathing difficulties. Testing is especially important if you notice purple spots on skin (purpura), persistent sinus problems, blood in urine, or sudden vision changes. If you have another autoimmune condition and develop new symptoms affecting multiple body systems, prompt testing can help detect vasculitis early. Early diagnosis through blood testing leads to timely treatment that can prevent serious organ damage and improve long-term outcomes.

What are the symptoms of systemic vasculitis?
Systemic vasculitis symptoms vary depending on which blood vessels and organs are affected. Common general symptoms include persistent fever, extreme fatigue, unintended weight loss, muscle and joint pain, and night sweats. Skin-related symptoms often include purple or red spots (purpura), rashes, ulcers, or lumps under the skin. Nervous system involvement may cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands and feet. You might experience shortness of breath, coughing, or chest pain if lung vessels are affected. Kidney involvement can cause blood in urine or swelling in legs. Some people develop severe headaches, vision problems, or sinus issues depending on which vessels are inflamed.
Who is at risk for systemic vasculitis?
Systemic vasculitis can affect anyone, but certain factors increase risk. People with other autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis have higher risk. Some types of vasculitis are more common in specific age groups, with certain forms affecting children while others primarily occur in adults over 50. Genetics play a role, as vasculitis can run in families. Recent or chronic infections, particularly hepatitis B or C, can trigger vasculitis in susceptible individuals. Certain medications and environmental exposures may also increase risk. Men and women are affected differently depending on the specific type of vasculitis, with some forms showing gender preference.
What happens if systemic vasculitis is left untreated?
Untreated systemic vasculitis can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications. The ongoing inflammation progressively damages blood vessels, restricting blood flow to vital organs. This can result in permanent organ damage including kidney failure requiring dialysis, heart attacks, stroke, or vision loss including blindness. Lung damage can cause breathing difficulties and respiratory failure. Nerve damage may become permanent, leading to lasting numbness, pain, or paralysis. Blood vessel damage can cause aneurysms (weakened vessel walls that bulge) which may rupture with fatal consequences. The chronic inflammation also significantly increases risk of blood clots and infections. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent these serious outcomes.
Can systemic vasculitis be diagnosed with a blood test?
Yes, blood tests are essential tools for diagnosing systemic vasculitis. The Complement Component C1q test measures levels of this critical immune protein, which becomes depleted when anti-C1q antibodies are present in vasculitis. Additional blood tests help confirm diagnosis and assess disease severity, including inflammatory markers like ESR and CRP, complete blood count to check for anemia and immune cell changes, and kidney and liver function tests to evaluate organ involvement. Blood tests for specific autoantibodies like ANCA can identify particular types of vasculitis. While blood tests are crucial, diagnosis typically combines blood test results with clinical symptoms, physical examination, and sometimes tissue biopsy to confirm blood vessel inflammation.
How is systemic vasculitis treated?
Systemic vasculitis treatment focuses on suppressing the overactive immune system and controlling inflammation to prevent organ damage. Corticosteroids like prednisone are typically the first-line treatment to quickly reduce inflammation. Immunosuppressive medications such as cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, or azathioprine help control the autoimmune response for long-term management. Biologic drugs like rituximab may be used for severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective. Treatment intensity depends on disease severity and which organs are affected. Mild cases might respond to corticosteroids alone, while severe vasculitis requires combination therapy with multiple immunosuppressive agents. Regular monitoring through blood tests tracks disease activity and helps adjust medications. Most people require long-term treatment to maintain remission and prevent flares.
How can I prevent systemic vasculitis?
While you cannot completely prevent systemic vasculitis because its exact causes are not fully understood, certain measures may reduce risk or prevent flares. If you have an autoimmune condition, working closely with your doctor to manage it effectively may lower vasculitis risk. Treating and preventing infections, particularly hepatitis B and C, can help since these infections are known triggers. Avoiding unnecessary medications and discussing potential side effects with your healthcare provider is important. If you have been diagnosed with vasculitis, preventing flares involves taking medications exactly as prescribed, attending regular follow-up appointments, managing stress through relaxation techniques, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Promptly reporting new symptoms to your doctor allows for early intervention before serious complications develop.
What can I do at home to manage systemic vasculitis?
While medical treatment is essential for systemic vasculitis, several home strategies support your health and treatment effectiveness. Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed and never stop immunosuppressive drugs without consulting your doctor. Get adequate rest since fatigue is common, and pace activities to conserve energy. Follow an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish while limiting processed foods and sugar. Gentle, regular exercise like walking or swimming helps maintain strength and joint flexibility without overexertion. Protect yourself from infections by washing hands frequently, avoiding sick contacts, and staying current with recommended vaccines. Manage stress through meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. Keep a symptom diary to track changes and identify potential flare triggers. Join support groups to connect with others managing vasculitis for emotional support and practical advice.
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If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.
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Complement Component C1q
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What's included
Fast & easy, results by email & SMS
No need to visit a doctor
Private & confidential
No insurance needed
Results explained
No extra fees paid at the lab

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