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IgG subclasses in the serum and sputum from patients with bronchiectasis
S L Hill1, J L Mitchell, D Burnett
1Department of Medicine, University of Birmingham, UK.
Thorax
|August 26, 1998
Summary
IgG subclass deficiency is rare in bronchiectasis patients. This study established new normal ranges, finding local IgG production in the lungs, suggesting a role in lung immunity for patients with bronchiectasis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pulmonology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Recurrent pulmonary infections are linked to IgG subclass deficiency.
- The prevalence of IgG subclass deficiency in bronchiectasis patients remains unestablished.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of IgG subclass deficiency in patients with bronchiectasis.
- To establish normal serum IgG subclass ranges for comparison.
- To investigate local IgG subclass production in the lungs of bronchiectasis patients.
Main Methods:
- Serum IgG subclass concentrations were measured in 89 bronchiectasis patients and 82 healthy controls.
- Sputum IgG subclass concentrations were assessed in 44 patients.
- Albumin levels were measured to evaluate local IgG subclass production versus plasma transudation.
Main Results:
- Serum IgG1, IgG2, and IgG3 were elevated in bronchiectasis patients compared to controls.
- IgG subclass deficiency was rare: 1% for IgG1-3 and 5% for IgG4.
- Sputum IgG subclass concentrations correlated with inflammation, and local production exceeded plasma transudation.
Conclusions:
- A new reference range for serum IgG subclasses was established.
- IgG subclass deficiency is uncommon in unselected bronchiectasis patients.
- Evidence suggests significant local IgG production within the lungs of these patients.