What does having C3G with a factor H abnormality mean?
Having C3G with a factor H abnormality means your complement system lacks proper "brakes" to keep it under control. Factor H (also called complement factor H or CFH) normally acts like a brake that keeps your complement system turned off until you need it to fight an Show Full Answer
What does having C3G with a factor H abnormality mean?
Having C3G with a factor H abnormality means your complement system lacks proper "brakes" to keep it under control. Factor H (also called complement factor H or CFH) normally acts like a brake that keeps your complement system turned off until you need it to fight an infection.
When there's an abnormality in factor H, it can happen in two ways:
* The protein isn't made at all
* The protein is made but doesn't work properly
Without working factor H, your complement system becomes overactive and starts breaking down normal C3 proteins. These broken pieces get stuck in your kidney filters (glomeruli), causing damage over time.
This is one of the genetic causes of C3G. Some people inherit mutations in the CFH gene that lead to this abnormality, though most C3G cases develop randomly without a family history.
The overactive complement system continuously attacks your kidneys, which is why treatment focuses on calming the immune system to prevent further damage.
December 22, 2025
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