Immunoglobulin subclasses in chronic tonsillitis.

The distribution and proportion of immunoglobulin-producing cells in palatine tonsil, including IgG and IgA subclasses, have been examined in chronic tonsillitis using an immunofluorescence method. Results obtained indicate that the percentage ratios of IgG1:IgG2:IgG3:IgG4 were 53.1:35.9:4.7:6.3. Higher percentages of IgG1- and lower percentages of IgG2-producing cells were found among 3 types of tonsillitis. Proportional ratios of IgA1:IgA2 were approximately 80:20, and a slight elevation of IgA2-producing cells was observed in chronic tonsillitis.