A medical student asks you about postnatal immunoglobulin development. The statement that should be included in this discussion is
ExplanationNeonates begin to synthesize IgM at an increased rate soon after birth. At about 6 days after birth, the serum concentration of IgM rises sharply. This rise continues until adult levels are achieved by approximately 1 yr of age. Serum IgA remains low throughout infancy. Maternal serum IgG gradually disappears during the 1st 6-8 mo of life until adult concentrations of total IgG are reached and maintained by 7-8 yr. The serum IgG level in infants usually reaches a low point at about 3-4 mo of postnatal life. The rate of development of IgE generally follows that of IgA.
