Test ID MBLF Mannan Binding Lectin Complement Pathway, Functional, Serum
Ordering Guidance
The most appropriate primary assays to use as screening methods for complement deficiencies are COM / Complement, Total, Serum and AH50 / Alternative Complement Pathway, Functional, Serum. Abnormal results in one or the other, none, or both assays will help direct further testing. If total complement and AH50 are both normal but the suspicion of a complement deficiency remains, this test for the lectin pathway function is recommended. After the initial 3 pathways of complement functional status are evaluated, the analysis of individual components and regulators may uncover functional or quantitative defects in certain components.
This test is rarely useful when ordered in isolation.
As the heat-labile fraction of the immune system, complement activation in vitro has been a challenge for researchers and scientists. Because of the thermal instability of complement proteins, it is often necessary to repeat testing to rule out a possible pre-analytical issue with a sample type, real complement consumption, or dysregulation.
Specimen Required
Patient Preparation:
1. If plasma exchange has been performed, wait 48 hours before collecting the specimen.
2. Fasting is preferred.
Collection Container/Tube: Red top (serum gel/SST are not acceptable)
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Immediately after specimen collection, place the tube on wet ice.
2. Centrifuge at 4° C and aliquot serum into plastic vial.
3. Freeze specimen within 30 minutes.
Useful For
Investigating recurrent meningococcal disease in young children
Investigating recurrent or severe infections in adults
Investigating glomerular kidney diseases
Additionally, deficiencies or dysregulation within the complement system may be identified in patients when this test is used in combination with related tests.
Method Name
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
Reporting Name
MBL Complement Path, Func, SSpecimen Type
Serum RedSpecimen Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
---|---|---|---|
Serum Red | Frozen | 14 days |
Reference Values
≥10%
Day(s) Performed
Wednesday
Report Available
2 to 8 daysPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test was developed, and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
86161
LOINC Code Information
Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
MBLF | MBL Complement Path, Func, S | 74522-4 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
MBLF | MBL Complement Path, Func, S | 74522-4 |