Serum immunoglobulin changes after accidental splenectomy in adults

Serum immunoglobulin levels were examined in a group of twelve healthy adults who underwent accidental splenectomy. Depressed mean IgM levels and elevated mean IgA levels were found in these patients as compared with the control group consisting of forty-five healthy, untraumatized volunteers. Immunoglobulin changes may have some relevance for the increased tendency to severe infections which has been noted after splenectomy.