[Interstitial plasma cells of the submaxillary glands].

Interstitial plasma cells are constantly present in the submaxillary gland. Their number varies greatly with species. They are normal cells, lymphocytes are never associated with them. Immuno-fluorescent studies show the presence of IgA. So, these cells are presumably the site of formation of secretory immunoglobulins which have been shown to be present in saliva. However this does not prove that they have no other secretory activity.