Complement proteins and soluble immune complex levels in Nigerians having primary liver cell carcinoma

Serum Complement (C3), proteins and circulating immune complex levels were estimated in Nigerians having primary liver cell carcinoma and control subjects by immunodiffusion in agar, biuret and polyethylene glycol precipitation methods respectively. The patients were observed to have diminished mean C3 and albumin concentrations whereas the mean total proteins, globulins and soluble immune complex levels were elevated. About 80 percent of the patients who had depressed serum C3 concentrations also had elevated levels of circulating immune complexes. There is however no correlation between the complement (C3) concentrations and the serum levels of immune complexes.