[Immunfluorescence of human brain tumours (author's transl)]

Sera of 38 patients with various intracranial tumours were examined by indirect immunofluorescence for antibodies against their own tumours. The frequency of antibodies found in this investigation corresponds to the frequency of antibodies against tumours of other organs. Antibodies were found in 9 out of 14 glioblastomas, in 3 out of 10 slower growing gliomas, and in 2 sarcomas. Antibodies could not be demonstrated in metastases, meningiomas, or Lindau tumours. Localization of antigens by immunofluorescnece suggests that they are surface antigens. Antibodies are found in sera collected two days after surgery as well as in sera obtained two weeks after surgery. The method used did not demonstrate any complement dependency. Possibilities for diagnostic use are discussed.