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[Intestinal immunity system and alimentary allergy (author's transl)]
Anales Espanoles De Pediatria
|February 1, 1977
Summary
Food-allergic children show increased immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody-producing cells in the intestine. These changes, particularly in IgE, are more pronounced in older allergic children, suggesting a role in food allergy development.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Intestinal immune responses are crucial in food allergy.
- Understanding the distribution of immunoglobulin-producing cells in the gut is key to elucidating allergic mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the density of IgA, IgM, IgG, and IgE-producing cells in the intestinal lamina propria of food-allergic children versus controls.
- To analyze these differences across various age groups.
Main Methods:
- Intestinal biopsies from 21 food-allergic and 16 control children were analyzed.
- Immunofluorescence was used to quantify immunoglobulin-producing cells (F.C.).
- Children were stratified into three age groups: under 9 months, 9-24 months, and over 24 months.
Main Results:
- Higher density of IgM-producing cells was observed in allergic children under 9 months.
- Allergic children across all age groups had more IgE-producing cells, with significant differences noted in those over 24 months.
- The IgA F.C./IgE F.C. ratio was lower in allergic children compared to controls after 10 months of age.
Conclusions:
- Food allergy in children is associated with distinct patterns of immunoglobulin-producing cells in the intestinal mucosa.
- Elevated IgE-producing cells, especially in older children, may indicate a heightened allergic sensitization.
- The altered IgA/IgE ratio suggests dysregulated mucosal immunity in pediatric food allergy.