Immunoglobulin in Inner Ear Fluids

Abstract

The inner ear is an extremely sensitive neurosensory organ buried in the temporal bone, so that it is protected from mechanical impact and direct invasion of the myriad organisms of the environment. Nevertheless, there are several inner ear disorders that are believed to be caused by an immune mechanism or allergic reaction. Some investigators (1–4) have induced endolymphatic hydrops in experimental animals by a possible immune reaction. Although there are several inner ear disorders which may be caused by an immune reaction, inner ear immunology has only been founded on clinical and fundamental research. To better understand the immune system of the inner ear, we review available data on inner ear immunology, with particular emphasis on the immunoglobulins present in inner ear fluids.