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Candida antibodies in amniotic fluid

M Mathai1, E Mathai, P Jairaj

  • 1Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Christian Medical College Hospital, Vellore.

The Indian Journal of Medical Research
|November 1, 1991
PubMed

Insights

Specific IgA antibodies against Candida albicans are naturally present in amniotic fluid. Researchers found IgA in most samples, but IgG and IgM were rare, suggesting a natural immune presence.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Microbiology
  • Obstetrics

Background:

  • Candida albicans is a common opportunistic pathogen.
  • The presence and role of specific antibodies in amniotic fluid are not fully understood.
  • Investigating the fetal immune response to Candida albicans is crucial for understanding pregnancy outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the presence and levels of specific immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM) against Candida albicans in amniotic fluid.
  • To detect Candida mannan antigen in amniotic fluid samples.
  • To ascertain whether anticandidal IgA in amniotic fluid is naturally occurring.

Main Methods:

  • Indirect immunofluorescence assay was used to detect specific immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM) against Candida albicans.
  • Latex agglutination test was employed to detect Candida mannan antigen.
  • Amniotic fluid samples from 23 and 30 participants were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Specific IgA antibodies against Candida albicans were detected in 19 out of 23 samples (P < 0.01).
  • Specific IgG antibodies were found in only seven samples.
  • No specific anticandidal IgM or Candida mannan antigen was detected in any of the tested samples (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

  • Anticandidal IgA in amniotic fluid appears to be naturally occurring.
  • The findings suggest a baseline level of humoral immunity against Candida albicans in the fetal environment.
  • Further research is warranted to explore the implications of naturally occurring anticandidal IgA in amniotic fluid.

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