Here I break down the confusing system that is the ire of medical learners who aim to memorize it, only to forget it later. Join me on a medieval journey that will help you visualize this complex system in a way that will stay with you. Brought to you by GSK. Consider the long-term impact of disease activity flares and corticosteroid use on patients with active SLE. Learn more now at treatfortodayandtomorrow.com. Intro :10 Welcome :24 How do you explain the complement system? :44 What is the complement system? 1:39 How does it complement the adaptive immunity? 3:43 Two major aspects of the complement system 4:50 Formation of the membrane attack complex 5:21 Why is this pathway so confusing? 5:55 Why do I have to memorize all of this? 8:33 Let’s talk about the cascades themselves 11:15 Breaking down the three pathways 12:55 Brought to you by GSK. Considering a treatment change for patients with active SLE? Learn about a treatment option for your patients at treatfortodayandtomorrow.com. The alternative pathway – walking to the beat of its own drum 16:15 A medieval tale of the classic and lectin pathway 22:36 The tale of the alternative pathway 28:00 Summary 31:55 In the next episode 32:40 Disclosures: Brown reports no relevant financial disclosures. We’d love to hear from you! Send your comments/questions to Dr. Brown at rheuminationspodcast@healio.com. Follow us on Twitter @HRheuminations @AdamJBrownMD @HealioRheum References: Music: The Medieval Banquet by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com