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Updated: Aug 5, 2026

Recognition of Epidermal Transglutaminase by IgA and Tissue Transglutaminase 2 Antibodies in a Rare Case of Rhesus Dermatitis
Published on: December 15, 2011
[A benign form of rheumatoid arthritis, associated with low IgG, IgM and IgA and C3-proactivator concentrations in
Abstract:
In 31 case studies, 29 patients diagnosed with definite rheumatoid arthritis and 2 patients with probable rheumatoid arthritis were investigated. The duration of the disease averaged 8 years with 3 years being the minimum. These patients received either no basic therapy or had not been treated six months previous to the investigation. Patients with low levels of immunoglobulins were shown to have significantly better functional capacity (Steinbrocker) and significantly less synovitis, erosions and joint destructions despite longer duration of the disease than the control group with higher levels of immunoglobulins and C3-proactivator. All patients with this benign development of rheumatoid arthritis had an IgG-level below 1000 mg/100 ml (mean 767 mg/100 ml +/- 166) and low levels of IgA (mean 194 mg/100 ml +/- 73), IgM (mean 111 mg/100 ml +/- 53) and C3-proactivator (mean 23 mg/100 ml +/-6). 50% of these patients had positive rheumatoid factors.
Insights
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis and low immunoglobulin levels exhibit better functional capacity and less joint damage. This suggests immunoglobulin levels may predict rheumatoid arthritis disease progression and severity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
Context:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation.
- Disease severity and progression in RA can vary significantly among patients.
- Immunoglobulin levels and complement components are implicated in autoimmune processes.
Purpose:
- To investigate the correlation between immunoglobulin levels and C3-proactivator and the clinical manifestations and disease progression in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- To determine if lower immunoglobulin levels are associated with a more benign course of rheumatoid arthritis.
Summary:
- This study analyzed 31 rheumatoid arthritis patients, assessing immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and C3-proactivator levels.
- Patients with lower levels of these markers demonstrated significantly better functional capacity (Steinbrocker scale) and reduced synovitis, erosions, and joint destruction.
- Despite a longer disease duration, patients with low immunoglobulin levels (IgG < 1000 mg/100 ml) showed a more favorable disease course compared to those with higher levels.
Impact:
- Identifies potential biomarkers (immunoglobulin levels) for predicting rheumatoid arthritis disease activity and prognosis.
- Suggests that low immunoglobulin levels may indicate a less aggressive form of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Provides insights into the immunopathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis and potential therapeutic targets.
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