Name of the Procedure:

Immune Complex Assay (Common names: Immune complex test, CIC assay)

Summary

An immune complex assay is a laboratory test that detects the presence of immune complexes in the blood. Immune complexes are formed when antibodies bind to antigens, and their accumulation can indicate various autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.

Purpose

This test helps in diagnosing and monitoring autoimmune diseases and other conditions that involve the immune system. It aims to identify abnormal immune activity or inflammation in the body.

Indications

This procedure is indicated for patients presenting with symptoms of autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or vasculitis. It is also appropriate for patients with unexplained inflammation, fever of unknown origin, or suspected immune complex-mediated diseases.

Preparation

• No special preparation is usually required.
• Patients should inform their doctor about any medications they are taking, as some drugs may affect the test results.
• Basic blood tests may be needed beforehand to assess overall health.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will use a needle to draw a blood sample, usually from a vein in the arm.
2. The collected blood is sent to a laboratory where it undergoes processing to isolate the immune complexes.
3. Highly sensitive assays, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), are used to quantify the level of immune complexes.
4. No anesthesia or sedation is typically required for this procedure.

Duration

The blood draw takes about 5-10 minutes. Laboratory analysis may take several hours to a few days, depending on the facility.

Setting

The blood draw is conducted in a clinical setting such as a hospital, outpatient clinic, or diagnostic lab.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse for the blood draw.
• Laboratory technician or medical technologist to perform and analyze the assay.

Risks and Complications

• Minor risks include bruising or slight pain at the needle insertion site.
• Rarely, there can be infection or excessive bleeding.
• Complications are uncommon and typically minor.

Benefits

• Helps in early diagnosis and effective management of autoimmune diseases.
• Offers insights into disease activity, which can guide treatment decisions.
• Results can be expected within a few days after the test.

Recovery

• No downtime is required after the blood draw.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results and next steps.

Alternatives

• Alternative blood tests to measure inflammation or specific autoantibodies.
• Imaging studies or tissue biopsies for further diagnosis.
• Pros: Immune complex assay specifically measures immune complex levels, which might not be captured by other tests.
• Cons: Other tests might be less invasive or provide additional diagnostic information.

Patient Experience

• During: The patient might feel a brief pinch or mild discomfort when the needle is inserted.
• After: Some soreness or bruising at the blood draw site is possible but usually subsides quickly.
• Pain management: Any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or a warm compress if needed.