complement deficiency
Inherited disorders affecting the complement system, leading to increased susceptibility to certain infections.
Full Definition
Complement deficiency refers to genetic disorders affecting components of the complement cascade, an important part of the innate immune system. These deficiencies can affect early complement components (C1, C2, C4), alternative pathway components, or terminal complement components (C5-C9). Different complement deficiencies predispose to distinct clinical patterns: early component deficiencies often lead to autoimmune manifestations, while terminal component deficiencies increase susceptibility to Neisseria infections. Diagnosis requires specialized laboratory testing including complement functional assays and individual component measurements.
Usage
Usage note: Note that 'complement' in this context refers to the immune system component, not something that completes.
In Context
- "Recurrent meningococcal infections led to investigation for terminal complement deficiency." — Infectious disease consultation
- "The child's complement deficiency was managed with prophylactic antibiotics and meningococcal vaccination." — Treatment protocol