Distribution of IgA 1 and IgA 2 plasma cells in various normal human tissues and in the jejunum of plasma IgA-deficient patients.

The distribution of IgA 1 and IgA 2 plasma cells was studied in normal human tissues. IgA 2 is a minor constituent in peripheral lymph nodes as well as in serum and in bone marrow plasma cells. An increased proportion of IgA 2 plasma cells was observed in gastric and intestinal mucosa, as well as in bronchial mucosa and salivary and mammary glands. Tonsils and mesenteric lymph nodes exhibit values intermediate between those of central and peripheral lymphoid systems. In patients with plasma IgA-deficiency, IgA 2 is the predominant intestinal IgA plasma cells. This may explain the frequent association of an asymptomatic condition and plasma IgA deficiency.