Immunoglobulin systems of human tonsils. I. Control subjects of various ages: quantification of Ig-producing cells, tonsillar morphometry and serum Ig concentrations
Brandtzaeg, P.; Surjan, L.; Berdal, P.
Clinical and Experimental Immunology 31(3): 367-381
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-9104 PMID: 350457 Document Number: 138725
Specimens of clinically normal palatine tonsils were studied by morphometry and immunohistochemistry, with regard to the relative tissue contribution and the content of Ig cells were probably derived from local clonal expansion processes. There was no indication of active Ig transport through the tonsillar epithelium, which was devoid of secretory component. In subjects 30-81 yr old, lymphoid elements of the tonsils were reduced, especially the follicular mantles and the reticular crypt epithelium, as well as their content of Ig-producing immunocytes. Such cells were also fewer in the germinal centers and in the extrafollicular area. Some shifts in the immunocyte class ratios had occurred in the various tissue compartments. In this age group, the number of tonsillar IgA cells showed a significant negative correlation with the rate of synthesis of serum IgA.