Pediatria pre prax 4/2022

Disorders of antibody immunity – update of the diagnostic standard

There are five principal classes of immunoglobulins in the human body. Each of them performs distinct functions, particularly in defense against extracellular bacteria and in neutralization of viruses. Antibody disorders may result from a genetic defect, which we refer to as primary immunodeficiencies, or they may be due to external, secondary causes. In the case of primary antibody disorders, non-infectious complications such as autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammatory diseases, allergic diseases or lymphoproliferative disorders often occur. Initial recognition of clinical signs and basic laboratory investigations, including immunoglobulin concentrations, are available to all physicians; further diagnosis requires collaboration with a clinical immunologist. Knowing the etiology of the antibody-mediated immunity disorder is essential for a targeted and effective treatment strategy. This thesis provides an up-to-date overview of the issue.

Keywords: antibodies, immunoglobulins, primary and secondary immunodeficiencies, diagnosis