Immunoglobulin G (IgG)

Overview and Clinical Significance

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the most abundant antibody in the bloodstream, accounting for 75-80% of total serum immunoglobulins. It plays a crucial role in immune defense, pathogen neutralization, and long-term immunity.

Clinical Significance

  • Infection Control & Immune Memory: IgG provides long-lasting immunity, recognizing and neutralizing bacteria, viruses, and toxins.
  • Autoimmune & Inflammatory Disorders: Elevated IgG levels may indicate chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or monoclonal gammopathies.
  • Immunodeficiency & Susceptibility to Infections: Low IgG levels are linked to primary immunodeficiencies, recurrent infections, and protein-losing syndromes.
  • Diagnostic & Therapeutic Applications: IgG testing helps assess immune function, chronic disease progression, and therapeutic responses.

IgG is a key regulator of immune defense, influencing infection resistance, autoimmune activity, and long-term immunity.

Increasing +

Decreasing -

Elevated IgG Levels and Associated Conditions

  • Chronic Infections or Ongoing Antigen Stimulation
    Persistent bacterial or viral infections can lead to sustained high IgG levels.
  • Autoimmune Diseases
    Conditions where autoantibody formation contributes to prolonged IgG elevation.
  • Paraproteinemias
    Disorders such as multiple myeloma may involve abnormal clonal IgG production.

Low IgG Levels and Associated Conditions

  • Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders
    Includes conditions such as common variable immunodeficiency (CVID).
  • Protein Loss Syndromes
    Can occur through the kidneys (e.g., nephrotic syndrome) or gut.
  • Neonatal Considerations
    Maternal IgG Contribution – Provides passive immunity in early infancy.
    Infant’s Immune Development – Own IgG production gradually increases over time.

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