Herpes simplex virus specific secretory IgA in lacrimal fluid during herpes keratitis.

The correct diagnosis of herpes keratitis is very important, as the clinical manifestation can be similar to that caused by immunologic defects. The presence of herpes simplex virus (HSV) specified IgG in lacrimal fluid is not of diagnostic value in cases where the eyes are severely inflamed, because the inflammation leads to impairment of the blood vessels and allows a passive diffusion of IgG from serum into the lacrimal fluid. In the present study we have developed a method for the detection of locally produced HSV-specific antibodies of the secretory IgA class present in lacrimal fluid from patients with active herpes keratitis.