Kompleksikemia

Kompleksikemia is a term used in some medical literature and discussions to describe a state in which circulating immune complexes—aggregates of antigen bound to antibody—are present at elevated levels in the bloodstream. It is not universally recognized as a separate disease entity but rather as a mechanism that can contribute to pathology in various immune-mediated and infectious conditions.

Pathophysiology centers on the formation of antigen‑antibody complexes that escape normal clearance, deposit in tissues, and activate the complement system. This can provoke inflammation and tissue injury in vessels, kidneys, skin, joints, and other organs. The clinical impact depends on the quantity of complexes and the patterns of deposition, and is often described as a type III hypersensitivity reaction.

Clinical features may be nonspecific or site‑dependent. Patients can experience fever, fatigue, rash, joint pain, and signs of organ involvement such as nephritis or vasculitis. Because the presentation overlaps with many other conditions, determining whether immune complexes play a primary role requires a comprehensive evaluation.

Diagnosis relies on combined laboratory and clinical assessment. Tests may include markers of immune complex activity, complement levels (such as C3 and C4), serologies for autoimmune disease, tests for cryoglobulins, and urine analysis. Tissue biopsy showing immune complex deposition can support the diagnosis in suspected organ involvement.

Management focuses on the underlying cause and on reducing immune complex formation or alleviating inflammation. Approaches may include infection control, immunosuppressive therapy, plasmapheresis in selected cases, and supportive care for organ dysfunction.

Prognosis varies with the cause and extent of organ involvement. In the absence of targeted treatment, complex-mediated damage can lead to chronic organ injury.

See also: immune complex disease, serum sickness, cryoglobulinemia, type III hypersensitivity, vasculitis.