Immunoglobulin and C3 abnormalities in acute psychiatric disorders

Abstract

In a prospective study of 54 patients with acute psychiatric disorders, elevated absolute concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgM and complement factor C3 were found in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in seven (P < 0.001), eight (P < 0.01) and in four patients, respectively, and in serum in seven, 19 and 17 patients (P < 0.001 in all), respectively, quantified by automated immunoprecipitin nephelometry in unconcentrated CSF and serum and compared with neurological controls with peripheral neurological symptoms. Elevation of the IgG-index was observed in seven patients (P < 0.001) and CSF/S albumin ratio in four patients (P < 0.05). The presence of oligoclonal IgG bands was found in 22 patients (P < 0.001). The results suggest that viral infections, inflammatory and autoimmune processes may have significance in the etiopathogenesis of acute psychiatric disorders.