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Food protein-induced enterocolitis: altered antibody response to ingested antigen
Pediatric Research
|August 1, 1984
Summary
Infants with food protein-induced enterocolitis show altered immune responses, with higher IgA and IgG antibodies to specific foods. This suggests a link between food intolerance and immune system changes in infants.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Food protein-induced enterocolitis is a syndrome of food intolerance in infants.
- The role of immunologic mechanisms in this condition requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role of immunologic mechanisms in food protein-induced enterocolitis.
- To measure class-specific serum antibodies to common food proteins in infants with suspected food intolerance.
Main Methods:
- Serum antibodies (IgA, IgG, IgM) to ovalbumin, soy, and cow milk were measured in 18 infants before food challenges.
- Infants underwent diagnostic food challenges to identify specific food intolerances.
- Changes in antibody levels were monitored after food challenges.
Main Results:
- Infants with positive food challenges had significantly higher IgA and IgG antibodies to the offending food.
- IgA antibody levels increased post-challenge in infants with soy intolerance.
- IgM antibody levels showed an inverse correlation with IgA, decreasing in those with positive challenges.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest an altered immunologic response to food antigens in infants with food protein-induced enterocolitis.
- Elevated IgA and IgG antibodies may play a role in the pathogenesis of this condition.
- Further research is needed to confirm the pathogenic role of these antibodies.
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