The role of phosphorylcholine-specific immune responses in the tonsils and peripheral blood on IgA nephropathy.

Background: Tonsillectomy combined with steroid pulse therapy was reported to be effective for patients with IgA nephropathy. However, the mechanisms of the effect of tonsillectomy on IgA nephropathy are unknown.
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of the phosphorylcholine (PC)-specific immune response in the tonsils and peripheral blood of patients with IgA nephropathy.
Material and Methods: Tonsillar lymphocytes were isolated and the number of PC-specific immunoglobulin-producing cells was measured. Additionally, serum PC-specific immunoglobulin levels were quantified and compared with laboratory findings.
Results: The number of PC-specific IgA-producing cells was increased in the tonsils of patients with IgA nephropathy. The value was significantly elevated in the group with a higher risk of initiating dialysis. In contrast, PC-specific IgM levels in the serum were significantly elevated in the group with a lower risk of initiating dialysis.
Conclusions and Significance: PC-specific immune responses in the tonsils and peripheral blood may be related to the pathological mechanism and progression of IgA nephropathy.