Immunoglobulins are a group of proteins (albumen) formed in plasma cells that specifically bind as antibodies with foreign substances (antigens) to render them harmless.
The following classes of immunoglobulins can be distinguished:
- Immunoglobulin A (IgA) – secreted on all mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, eyes, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary tract, and via special glands around the nipple of mothers, where it protects against pathogens; found in blood serum and body secretions.
- Immunoglobulin D (IgD) – occurs in the membrane of B lymphocytes.
- Immunoglobulin E (IgE) – mediates protection against parasites, such as worms. Upon antigen contact, it leads to the release of histamines, granzymes, etc.; found in the membrane of mast cells and basophilic granulocytes (allergic immediate reaction).
- Immunoglobulin G (IgG) – is formed only in a delayed defense phase (3 weeks) and remains for a long time. Detection of Ig G indicates a passed infection or vaccination; occurrence in blood serum and breast milk; placental.
- Immunoglobulin M (IgM) – is the first class of antibodies formed on initial contact with antigens and indicates the acute infectious phase of a disease; occurrence in blood serum.
Immunoglobulins are composed of two light and two heavy polypeptide chains connected by disulfide bridges.
IgE plays a critical role in allergic reactions by mediating type 1 hypersensitivity responses.
The process
Material needed
- Blood serum
Preparation of the patient
- Not necessary
Disruptive factors
- Not known
Standard values
| Age | Normal value in IU/ml | Normal value in μg/l |
| Newborn | < 1,5 | < 3,57 |
| < 6. month of life | < 7,2 | < 17,14 |
| 7-12 months of life | < 12,2 | < 29,05 |
| 1-5 years | < 60 | < 142,86 |
| 6-9 years | < 90 | < 214,29 |
| 10-15 years | < 200 | < 476,19 |
| > 15 years | < 100 | < 238,10 |
Indications
- Suspicion of atopy
Interpretation
Interpretation of increased values
- Atopy such as allergic bronchial asthma, atopic eczema (neurodermatitis), allergic rhinitis (hay fever, allergic rhinitis).
- Dermatoses – pathological changes in the skin
- Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
- Parasitoses – infection with parasites of all kinds.
- Plasmocytoma (multiple myeloma)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Burns
Interpretation of lowered values
