Serum IgM immunoglobulin in neonatal enteritis.

The serum IgM immunoglobulin level has been studied in 106 newborns admitted with enteritis of various aetiology. The clinical characteristics of E. coli K86 and K59 enteritis as well as those of aspecific enteritis are discussed. The epidemic caused by E. coli K86 was the first of its kind observed in Hungary. Mature, dysmature and preterm newborns were all capable of increased IgM production under the effect of an antigenic stimulus. Serial examinations showed a rapid and considerable rise of IgM concentration in the initial, active phase of the disease. The rise was significant statistically and the level remained constant in the course of the disease and during convalescence. The importance of prevention is emphasized, especially as fatal septicaemia may develop on the basis of the existing or of a new infection, in spite of careful nursing and drug therapy.