Immunoglobulin concentrations in schizophrenic patients in relation to psychopathology

Abstract

Immunopathology in schizophrenic patients has been demonstrated earlier. There are reports concerning a decrease in non-specific reactivity of the lymphocytes, changes in the number of lymphocytes, changes in immunoglobulins in the blood, and the presence of autoantibodies. However, there are few results concerning possible relationships between immunopathology and psychopathology. The aim of the present study has been to elucidate such possible relationships in schizophrenic patients. Eighty-seven schizophrenic patients and the same number of age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers were included. Immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, and IgM) in the blood were determined. The IgA concentrations did not differ between schizophrenic patients and healthy volunteers, and the IgG and IgM concentrations did not differ between male patients and healthy males. However, the IgG and IgM concentrations in female patients were significantly higher than those in the healthy females. Furthermore, the concentrations of IgG and IgM were significantly correlated to symptoms such as thought disturbances, inner anxiety, ambivalence, negativism, lack of insight, mood disturbances, inappropriate affect, delusional perception, gustatory hallucinations, psychosomatic disturbances, passivity, and tension.

Key Words:

• Immunoglobulins
• Psychopathology
• Schizophrenia