What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing frequent or unusual infections, especially ones caused by certain bacteria, and your prior testing hasn't found a clear cause. It's also useful if you have a family history of immune system problems or an autoimmune condition and want to understand how well one part of your immune defenses is working. This test looks at whether a specific immune pathway is functioning normally.

What's included in this test?

This test measures how well one branch of your immune system, called the alternative complement pathway, is working as a whole. Rather than looking at individual immune proteins one by one, it checks whether they work together properly to help your body fight off certain infections. This gives a fuller picture of this part of your immune function than checking single markers alone.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your online account with the normal range clearly explained next to your value, so you can see exactly where you stand. If your result is outside the normal range, simple next steps include noting any recent infections or illness and considering a retest in a few months to confirm the finding, since temporary illness can affect this pathway. If a result comes back very low along with signs of active infection or repeated illness, it's important to seek medical care promptly. You can also download a standard lab report from your account and track this value over time using the trends feature.

How can I naturally support immune function?

Getting enough sleep, eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods, and managing stress all help your immune system work well. Foods high in vitamin C, zinc, and protein support the proteins your immune system needs to build its defenses. Regular moderate exercise and staying hydrated also help your body maintain healthy immune responses. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use can prevent unnecessary strain on your immune system.

When will I get my results?

Results from this test are typically ready within about 7 days after your sample is collected. You'll get a notification once your results are posted to your secure online account, where you can view and download them at your convenience.

Who should consider this test?

People who get frequent, severe, or unusual infections, especially from certain types of bacteria, may benefit from this test. It's also worth considering if you have a family history of immune deficiencies or autoimmune diseases and want more insight into your immune health. Anyone whose doctor visits haven't turned up other explanations for recurring illness might find this test helpful for narrowing things down.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Frequent infections, infections that are more severe or last longer than expected, or infections from unusual bacteria can be signs worth investigating. Recurring sinus infections, pneumonia, or meningitis are also reasons some people look into their immune function. If you have a family history of autoimmune conditions alongside these symptoms, that's another signal this test could be useful.

What does a low result mean?

A low result means this part of your immune system isn't working as well as it should, which can make it harder for your body to fight off certain infections. This can happen due to an inherited condition, an active infection or illness using up immune proteins, certain autoimmune diseases, or liver conditions since some immune proteins are made in the liver. Retesting when you're not sick can help clarify whether the result reflects a temporary dip or an ongoing issue.

How often should I retest?

If your first result is normal and you're not having ongoing symptoms, you likely don't need to retest unless new symptoms appear. If your result was low or unusual, retesting after a few months, and ideally when you're not currently sick, can help confirm whether it's a lasting pattern or was affected by a temporary illness. Tracking results over time in your account can help you and anyone helping manage your health see any trends.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

Start by noting whether you were sick or fighting an infection around the time of testing, since this can temporarily lower results. Consider a retest in a few months when you're feeling well to see if the value changes. If you continue to have frequent infections or your levels stay low, seeking medical care to explore the underlying cause is a reasonable next step.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Alternative Complement Pathway Test - Immune Function

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]