Immunoglobulins in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Data have accumulated indicating that the human brain with its extracellular space, i.e. the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), must be regarded from an immunological point of view as a separate entity. For example, the reaction of the lymphocytes present in the CSF in multiple sclerosis (MS) is different from that of blood lymphocytes in the same patient. Consequently, immunoglobulin abnormalities may be found in CSF and brain tissue, e.g. elevated immunoglobulin levels and oligoclonal IgG. These immunoglobulins which are synthesized within the CNS consist of specific antibodies in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis and acute viral meningitis. The antibody character of intrathecally synthesized IgG in MS in unknown.