Value of complement system in the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus

The complement system plays a major role in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). At present, complement component 3(C3) and component 4(C4) are the diagnostic markers in the internationally recognized standard of SLE classification. Complement C3 and C4 can play a role in the diagnosis of SLE patients, but they are not very specific diagnostic markers. Therefore, it is important to find more better biomarkers of SLE. In this review, the latest findings in complement-focused research in SLE were explored. Complement level, cell-bound complement activation products and membrane-bound complement regulatory proteins are associated with the pathogenesis of SLE. They may become SLE biomarkers and aid the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with this disease. Key words: Lupus erythematosus, systemic; Complement system proteins; Complement activation; Biomarkers