Biological variation of immunoglobulin concentrations in normal human tears related to age and sex

Acta Ophthalmol (Copenh). 1978 Jun;56(3):439-44. doi: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.1978.tb05697.x.

Abstract

Single radial immunodiffusion method was used to measure the concentration of IgG, IgA, IgM and IgD in tears of 220 healthy individuals aged from 2 to 86 years. Relation of the values to age and sex has been evaluated statistically by regression analysis method. Mean IgA level was 30.7 mg/100 ml. IgG could be detected in 200 samples and the level was less than 1 mg/100 ml. IgM was detected in only 7 samples and the value was less than 1 mg/100 ml. IgD could not be detected in any of the sample. The IgA level in males and that in females differs significantly, the females having a higher mean value. The IgA level appears to increase in both sexes with age. No relationship with age and sex could be established in other types of immunoglobulins.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunodiffusion
  • Immunoglobulin A / analysis
  • Immunoglobulin D / analysis
  • Immunoglobulin G / analysis
  • Immunoglobulin M / analysis
  • Immunoglobulins / analysis*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sex Factors
  • Tears / immunology*

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin A
  • Immunoglobulin D
  • Immunoglobulin G
  • Immunoglobulin M
  • Immunoglobulins