The role of phosphorylcholine-specific immune responses in the tonsils and peripheral blood on IgA nephropathy.

BACKGROUND

Tonsillectomy combined with steroid pulse therapy was reported to be effective for patients with IgA nephropathy. However, the mechanisms of the effect of tonsillectomy on IgA nephropathy are unknown.

AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of the phosphorylcholine (PC)-specific immune response in the tonsils and peripheral blood of patients with IgA nephropathy.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Tonsillar lymphocytes were isolated and the number of PC-specific immunoglobulin-producing cells was measured. Additionally, serum PC-specific immunoglobulin levels were quantified and compared with laboratory findings.

RESULTS

The number of PC-specific IgA-producing cells was increased in the tonsils of patients with IgA nephropathy. The value was significantly elevated in the group with a higher risk of initiating dialysis. In contrast, PC-specific IgM levels in the serum were significantly elevated in the group with a lower risk of initiating dialysis.

CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE: PC-specific immune responses in the tonsils and peripheral blood may be related to the pathological mechanism and progression of IgA nephropathy.