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[Spondylarthropathies and the IgA system]
1Service de rhumatologie, hôpital J-Minjoz, CHRU, Besançon, France.
La Revue De Medecine Interne
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Increased Immunoglobulin A (IgA) in spondyloarthropathies (SA) reflects a specific immune response to bacterial antigens. This immune response may contribute to extraarticular manifestations and serves as a marker of disease activity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Microbiology
Context:
- Spondyloarthropathies (SA) are linked to bacterial infections originating from mucosal surfaces.
- In vitro Immunoglobulin A (IgA) synthesis is normal in Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS).
Purpose:
- To investigate the role of IgA in the pathogenesis of spondyloarthropathies.
- To explore the relationship between IgA levels and disease activity in SA.
Summary:
- Elevated IgA levels in SA are attributed to a specific immune response against implicated bacterial antigens.
- IgA contributes to immune complex formation, potentially causing extraarticular symptoms like renal, cutaneous, or vascular issues.
- Increased secretory IgA indicates activation of both compartments of the humoral immune response, consistent with the disease's pathophysiology.
Impact:
- Serum IgA levels can serve as a practical biological marker for assessing spondyloarthropathies activity.
- Understanding IgA's role may offer insights into developing targeted therapies for SA and related conditions.