Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyKidneyDiseaseTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
September 27
 · 
Be the first to react
A MyKidneyDiseaseTeam Member

It has been the medicine from Rheumatoid Arthritis that has ruined my kidneys.

September 27
MyKidneyDiseaseTeam

It's completely understandable to feel worried when you see unfamiliar results on a lab report. First, take a breath β€” having your specialist appointment already scheduled is a really positive step, and you're in the right place to get answers.

Without knowing the full context of your results, "C3a" and "C3b" likely refer to Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to feel worried when you see unfamiliar results on a lab report. First, take a breath β€” having your specialist appointment already scheduled is a really positive step, and you're in the right place to get answers.

Without knowing the full context of your results, "C3a" and "C3b" likely refer to components of your complement system β€” a part of your immune system that plays a role in kidney disease. These are proteins that doctors measure to better understand what's happening in your kidneys. Here's what's helpful to know going into your appointment:

- C3 levels are commonly tested when evaluating kidney conditions
- Abnormal complement results help your doctor understand the cause and severity of what's happening
- These results alone don't tell the whole story β€” your doctor will look at everything together

The best thing to do right now is write down your questions so you don't forget them during your visit. A good one to ask is: *"Can you explain what my C3 results mean for my kidney health specifically?"*

Your specialist is the right person to interpret these results in the context of your full picture. Try to hold on until that appointment β€” you're already doing the right things.

September 27

Related Questions

View All
A MyKidneyDiseaseTeam Member asked a question πŸ’­

A MyKidneyDiseaseTeam Member asked a question πŸ’­
Enterprise, AL