Influence of parenteral immunization in rabbits on the penetrability of oral mucosa for macromolecules.

It should not be overlooked that serum-derived antibodies may normally play an important role in mucosal homeostasis conducive to health. Thus, protection against at least some bacterial components may be an antibody-mediated function during the initial phase of gingivitis (21). Nevertheless, Auer demonstrated in 1920 that mild inflammation can be severely aggravated by local accumulation of serum-derived antibodies combined with a systemic supply of the corresponding antigen (2); subsequent studies have shown that this holds true also when the antigen is topically applied (11,14). Theoretically, the initial gingival lesion is an ideal situation for the development of a so-called "Auer-phenomenon", due to continuous supply of antigens from dental plaque and food. This possible hazard of circulating antibodies must be taken into account when immunoprophylaxis is attempted by parenteral vaccines.