[Serum and lacrimal proteins in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome]

The concentrations of seven proteins [albumin (Alb), immunoglobulins (IgG, A, M), lactoferrin (Lf), lysozyme (Lzm) and beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2 m)] were measured in the tears and serum of 10 patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and in 13 normal subjects. In the AIDS group, alteration of the blood-lacrimal barrier was revealed by the high Alb clearance. In this group also, the significantly high IgG, IgA, IgM and beta 2 m concentrations indicated a systemic and local immune response, with passive transfer of these proteins from serum to tears. However, Lf and Lzm concentrations were normal, showing that the secretory activity of the lacrimal gland remained unchanged.