Open AccessImmune complexes and complement catabolism in ankylosing spondylitis
Author(s) -
Gabay R.,
Zubler R. H.,
Nydegger U. E.,
Lambert P. H.
Publication year - 1977
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1780200402
Subject(s) - ankylosing spondylitis , rheumatoid arthritis , immune system , immunology , catabolism , medicine , immune complex , spondylitis , gastroenterology , metabolism
In serum samples from 37 patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), immune complexes were quantitated by the 125 I‐Clq binding test; in paired plasma samples the C3 breakdown product C3d was measured by an immuno‐chemical method. Compared to results in 30 blood donors, the Clq binding activity was significantly ( > 2 SD ), although discretely, increased in 5 of 8 patients with seropositive AS, but not in other AS patients. All C3d levels were within the normal range. In a parallel investigation, increased Clq binding activity and C3d levels were found in 87% and 90%, respectively, of patients with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis.