Which department should I visit for low complement C3?
May 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Low complement C3 is generally caused by immune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis; in such cases, patients may visit the rheumatology and immunology department. Glomerulonephritis can damage kidney function, preventing it from working fully, leading to decreased filtration and synthetic capacity; for this condition, patients should consider the nephrology department. If there is liver damage, patients may seek care at the hepatobiliary surgery department.
Low complement C3 levels generally require consultation with departments such as rheumatology and immunology, nephrology, or hepatobiliary surgery, depending on the specific condition. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Department of Rheumatology and Immunology
If low complement C3 is caused by immune system disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis, patients should visit the rheumatology and immunology department. Diagnosis can be confirmed through tests including chest CT, complete blood count, antinuclear antibody testing, and others.
2. Department of Nephrology
If glomerulonephritis has impaired kidney function, reducing filtration rate and synthesis capacity, patients should seek care in the nephrology department. Diagnosis can be established through urine tests and renal ultrasound, among other evaluations.
3. Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery
If decreased complement synthesis is due to liver damage—such as cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis—resulting in progressive loss of normal liver function, patients should consult the hepatobiliary surgery department. Diagnosis can be confirmed via liver function tests and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), among other assessments.
In addition to these commonly involved departments, patients may also consider visiting the gastroenterology department. If the underlying cause cannot be determined based on symptoms, initial evaluation can be conducted in the emergency department.
