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Complement anaphylatoxins in idiopathic mixed cryoglobulinemia
International Archives of Allergy and Applied Immunology
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Idiopathic mixed cryoglobulinemia patients show elevated C3a desArg levels, suggesting its role in basophil activation. Complement anaphylatoxin C4a desArg was lower, and C5a desArg was undetectable.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Complement System
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Basophil activation is implicated in idiopathic mixed cryoglobulinemia.
- Complement anaphylatoxins C4a, C3a, and C5a are linked to basophil activation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate plasma levels of complement anaphylatoxins in patients with idiopathic mixed cryoglobulinemia.
- To investigate the potential role of C3a anaphylatoxin in 'in vivo' basophil activation.
Main Methods:
- Plasma levels of C3a desArg, C4a desArg, and C5a desArg were measured.
- 21 patients with idiopathic mixed cryoglobulinemia were studied.
- Levels were compared to healthy controls.
Main Results:
- Plasma C3a desArg concentration was significantly higher in patients than controls.
- Plasma C4a desArg concentration was significantly lower in patients than controls.
- C5a desArg was not detectable in any subject.
Conclusions:
- Elevated plasma C3a desArg suggests a role in 'in vivo' basophil activation in idiopathic mixed cryoglobulinemia.
- No correlation found between anaphylatoxin levels, cryoprecipitate amount, or disease activity.