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Immunoglobulin concentrations in human tears in ocular diseases
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|May 1, 1979
Summary
Tear immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels are elevated in several acute eye diseases, unlike immunoglobulin G (IgG). This study highlights IgA as the primary immunoglobulin altered in various ocular inflammatory conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Immunoglobulins in human tears play a crucial role in ocular defense.
- Understanding immunoglobulin profiles in various eye diseases is essential for diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and compare immunoglobulin concentrations (IgA, IgG, IgM, IgD) in the tears of patients with diverse eye diseases.
- To identify specific immunoglobulin alterations associated with different ocular pathologies.
Main Methods:
- A standard radial immunodiffusion method was employed.
- Tear samples were collected from 165 patients diagnosed with various eye conditions and from control subjects.
Main Results:
- Immunoglobulin A (IgA) was consistently detected in all tear samples.
- Significantly elevated mean IgA levels were observed in patients with acute bacterial conjunctivitis, keratomalacia, corneal graft reaction, blepharoconjunctivitis, and acute keratoconjunctivitis compared to controls.
- Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) were detected in fewer samples, and Immunoglobulin D (IgD) was not detected.
- No significant differences in IgA levels were found in patients with vernal conjunctivitis, phlyctenular conjunctivitis, acute bacterial corneal ulcer, or acute endogenous uveitis.
Conclusions:
- Tear IgA levels are predominantly altered in diseased eyes, rather than IgG levels.
- Elevated tear IgA may serve as a biomarker for specific acute ocular inflammatory conditions.