Immunologic basis for the pathogenesis of pterygium

Am J Ophthalmol. 1984 Aug 15;98(2):225-8. doi: 10.1016/0002-9394(87)90358-8.

Abstract

We examined surgically excised pterygial tissues from 26 patients for the various immunoglobulin classes by direct immunofluorescence. Of the 26 patients, 19 (73.1%) showed positive staining with goat anti-human IgG fluorescein-labeled antibody. Direct immunofluorescence with goat anti-human IgE fluorescein-labeled antibody was found in all 26 samples, varying in fluorescent intensity from 1+ to 4+. Routine histologic staining disclosed an infiltration of small lymphocytes and plasma cells into the pterygium. These results suggest that an immunologic mechanism, possibly Type 1 hypersensitivity, may contribute to the pathogenesis of pterygium.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Dust
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity*
  • Immunoglobulin E / analysis
  • Immunoglobulin G / analysis
  • Irritants
  • Lymphocytes
  • Plasma Cells
  • Platelet-Derived Growth Factor / physiology
  • Pollen / immunology
  • Pterygium / immunology*
  • Pterygium / pathology
  • Pterygium / physiopathology

Substances

  • Dust
  • Immunoglobulin G
  • Irritants
  • Platelet-Derived Growth Factor
  • Immunoglobulin E