Conversion of the C3 component of complement in sera of Hanseniasis patients

Abstract

The levels of total C3 (native C3 plus its degradation products) and the degree of conversion of native C3 into its breakdown products were studied in sera of Virchowian (V), tuberculoid (T), indeterminate (I), and Virchowian with erythema nodosum Hansenicum (ENH) patients. Sera from normal individuals (N) were also analysed. While the levels of total C3 were not significantly different among the groups, the percentage of conversion of C3 into its degradation products was significantly higher in V and ENH sera. The activation of the complement system and the involvement of immune complexes (IC) are discussed.