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IgA-alpha 1 antitrypsin complexes in ankylosing spondylitis
G R Struthers1, I V Lewin, D R Stanworth
1Department of Rheumatology, Medical School, University of Birmingham.
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Elevated IgA-alpha 1 antitrypsin complexes in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients correlate with disease activity and extra-spinal symptoms. These complexes may play a role in AS pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease.
- The role of specific immune complexes in AS pathogenesis is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and clinical significance of IgA-alpha 1 antitrypsin complexes in AS patients.
- To explore the association between these complexes and disease activity or specific manifestations.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples from 61 ankylosing spondylitis patients were analyzed.
- Levels of IgA-alpha 1 antitrypsin complexes were measured and correlated with clinical data.
Main Results:
- Raised levels of IgA-alpha 1 antitrypsin complexes were found in 34% of patients.
- These elevated levels were associated with active disease, including erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and serum IgA.
- A notable link was observed between these complexes and extra-spinal AS manifestations like synovitis and uveitis.
Conclusions:
- IgA-alpha 1 antitrypsin complexes are present in a significant subset of AS patients.
- These complexes are associated with disease activity and extra-spinal manifestations.
- The findings suggest a potential role for these complexes in the pathogenesis of AS clinical features.