Immunopathological study of the larynx. IgA distribution and secretory activity.

Using immunofluorescent and histopathological techniques, we studied the distribution and secretory activity of the glands of the larynx from 55 humans. The cavity of the larynx was covered with secretory glandular cells with the exception of the true vocal cords, aryepiglottic folds and upper part of the laryngeal surface of the epiglottis. Immunofluorescent study revealed the presence of IgG and other immunoglobulins throughout the connective tissue ground in each laryngeal mucosa. The most striking was seen in the staining pattern of IgA. Diffuse fluorescence for IgA was observed not only in the submucosal or periglandular connective tissue area but also in the intraeptithelial or submucosa glands. Secretory component synthesis was found mainly in each serous-type glandular epithelium or acinus. In the submucosa or periglandular area, IgA producing plasma cells were numerous. Our observations suggest that IgA, produced locally, is secreted via the glandular cells as secretory component--SIgA. Secretory activity of SIgA in these glandular tissues indicates that the larynx is possibly an immunologically active organ in the upper respiratory tract.