Specific local immunity of superior air tracts, particulary concerning Waldeyer's ring

Abstract

The immuno-istochemical method allowed to demonstrate, in adenoids and tonsils affected physiological phlogosisthe presence of a considerable number of plasmocytic IgA-positive elements and a lesser number of IgG and IgM-positive elements. In the cours of an inflammatory relapsing the IgG fraction increases remarkably, whereas the IgA and the IgG ones remain unchanged. Moreover, a greater number of strongly marked clear centers are observable. The basilar defence at the level of the upper respiratory tract, in particular of the adenoid tissues, is mainly ensured by IgA, while in emergency conditions, such as an acute phlogosis, the antimicrobial defencre is assumed by IgG