Secretory IgA Content in Human Normal and Tumoral Bronchial Mucosa <i>in vitro</i>

Abstract

Secretory IgA-S content was evaluated in vitro in human normal and tumoral bronchial mucosa from 39 cases. In 75% of the cases, IgA-S production by tumoral tissue was higher than the levels found in control populations. On the other hand, IgA-S synthesis by normal bronchial tissue of patients with lung tumors, particularly with squamous cell carcinoma, was increased in comparison with patients free of neoplastic bronchopulmonary disease, in 30% of the cases. Comparing tumorous tissue with normal mucosa from the contralateral bronchus of the same patient, marked differences in IgA-S patterns were observed. Regarding the results obtained, we could consider the measuring of IgA-S in bronchial mucosa as a valuable diagnostic aid in patients with suspect pulmonary masses.

SIgA in various pulmonary diseases

“…It has been found that, compared with patients without neoplastic bronchopulmonary disease, 30% of patients with lung cancer, especially those with squamous cell carcinoma, have increased levels of SIgA synthesis in normal bronchial tissues. The determination of SIgA in bronchial mucosa can be regarded as a valuable early diagnostic aid for suspected lung tumors [ 130 , 131 ]. The decreased concentration of SIgA in the airway of lung cancer patients may have adverse effects on airway resistance to bacterial colonization [ 132 ].…”