Abstract: Objectives To assess complement levels C1q, C2, C3 and C4 in children with pediatric-onset lupus during the quiescent stage of the disease. Methods: Thirty-four consecutive children with pediatric-onset SLE (onset below 12 years), in the quiescent stage were enrolled for the study. Twenty-nine age and sex matched healthy children were also enrolled for the purpose of comparison. Complement C1q and C2 levels were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) whereas C3 and C4 were measured by end-point nephelometry.
Genetic mutation analysis and functional assessment of classical complement pathway by ELISA were carried out in children with depressed levels of these compliments. The study protocol was approved by the Institute Thesis Committee and the Institute Ethics Committee. Results: Mean complement C1q, C2, C3 and C4 levels were 50.32, 17.28, 1320 and 236 mg/L…
