Immunoglobulins – IgA, IgG & IgM

Special Precautions/Comments:

Additional Information:

Immunoglobulins are produced by B-cells as part of the adaptive immune response and consist of two heavy chains (IgA, IgM or IgG) and two light chains (kappa or lambda). IgG accounts for approximately 80% of serum immunoglobulins, IgA for approximately 13% and IgM for only 6%. The remaining 1% is made up of IgD and IgE.

Immunoglobulins may be increased in infection, inflammation, autoimmune disease, chronic liver disease and monoclonal gammopathies such as myeloma.

Decreased immunoglobulins may be seen in immunodeficiency, protein-losing enteropathies, nephrotic syndrome or immunoparesis.