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Updated: Jun 8, 2026
Methods for Quantitative Detection of Antibody-induced Complement Activation on Red Blood Cells
Published on: January 29, 2014
A study of immunoglobulins and complements (C3 & C4) in alopecia areata
R P Sharma1, D K Sharma, N K Sharma
1Departments of Dermatology, Pathology and Biochemistry, LLRM Medical Collage, Meerut (UP) 250004, India.
Insights
This study found that most alopecia areata patients have decreased immunoglobulin levels (IgG, IgM, IgA). However, serum complement levels (C3, C4) remained within normal ranges, suggesting a specific immune system alteration in alopecia areata.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition affecting hair follicles.
- Understanding the immune system's role is crucial for managing alopecia areata.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate serum immunoglobulin and complement levels in alopecia areata patients.
- To determine if specific immune markers correlate with disease severity.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples from 100 alopecia areata patients were analyzed.
- Immunoglobulin (IgG, IgM, IgA) and complement (C3, C4) levels were quantified.
- Patients were classified into circumscribed and severe alopecia areata groups.
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in one or more immunoglobulin levels was observed in most patients.
- Serum complement levels (C3 and C4) were generally within normal control ranges.
- No specific correlation with disease severity was detailed in the provided text.
Conclusions:
- Alopecia areata is associated with altered immunoglobulin levels.
- Serum complement levels do not appear significantly affected in this patient cohort.
- Further research may elucidate the precise immunological mechanisms in alopecia areata.
Abstract:
Estimation of serum Immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM and IgA) and complements (C3 and C4) was carried out in 100 cases of alopecia areata as per method described by Mancini (1965).[1] Clinically patients were divided in two groups, alopecia areata circumscribed (group I) and severe alopecia areata (group II). Significant decrease in levels of one or more Immunoglobulins were observed in most of the patients. However, Serum complements (C3 and C4) were within range of normal control values.
