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Complement System1

Complement is a system of 30 proteins in the bloodstream which works in an organized fashion to defend against infecting pathogens. One type of complement protein coats pathogens so they are more easily digested by phagocytes. Other complement proteins attract phagocytes with chemical signals. Assembled together on a pathogen's surface, the complement system can cause it to burst.

  1. Blaese RM, Winkelstein J. Patient & Family Handbook for Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases. Towson, MD: Immune Deficiency Foundation; 2007, p.6.