Abstract
Immunofluorescent techniques were used to measure serum immunoglobulin M and G (IgM and IgG) antibody titers against bacteria isolated from sputum during 56 exacerbations of chronic bronchitis. Titers of antibody against a single rough strain of Hemophilus influenzae were also determined. Fourfold increases in IgM or IgG titer to H. influenzae were observed in 18 instances. Increases in titers of IgM antibodies to Diplococcus pneumoniae were observed in 3 of 11 instances. Titer increases against both organisms occurred primarily in patients with low initial titers. Increases in titer of antibodies against other potential pathogens found in sputum were uncommon. These data support the hypothesis that H. influenzae and D. pneumoniae play pathogenic roles in acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.
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