QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
IgA is the most predominant immunoglobulin found in breast milk. It can also be found in secretions of the digestive, respiratory and urogenital systems. The other role of IgA is to provided protection on cell mucus membranes. It does not pass into the foetal circulation.
10007537
b
IgA
QuestionChoice
IgE is associated with Type 1 Hypersensitivity reactions. It is synthesized by plasma cells and provides immunity to parasites such as helminths. It is not typically seen in foetal circulation.
10007538
c
IgE
QuestionChoice
This immunoglobin is the only type that is able to pass into the foetal circulation. IgG is also involved in the phagocytosis of bacteria and viruses, and is the most abundant type of immunoglobulin found in the blood serum.
10007536
a
IgG
QuestionChoice
IgG is the immunoglobulin involved in activation of B cells. It cannot cross the placenta.
10007540
e
IgD
QuestionChoice
IgM cannot pass into fetal circulation. However, it does fix to complement in a similar way to IgG. The defining feature of IgM is that it is the first immunoglobulin to be secreted in response to infection. It is secreted as a pentamer.
10007539
d
IgM
Concept
Chapter
2693
3854
Antibodies
Topic
158
Immunology
14054
A 29-year-old pregnant female attends a routine 28-week antenatal appointment. She is keen to know more about the foetal immune system. The midwife explains that there are five different types of immunoglobulin found in the body, but only one can cross the placenta to reach the foetal circulation.

Which of the following immunoglobulins can cross the placenta?
a