The immunoglobulin present in colostrum is?

Appeared in: DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

IgA is the predominant antibody found in colostrum, the initial milk secreted after birth.
It is present as secretory IgA (sIgA), which is specially equipped to survive in the digestive tract.
sIgA provides local or mucosal immunity by coating the infant's gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts.
This coating prevents pathogens from attaching to and invading the mucosal surfaces, thus protecting the newborn from infections.

Option A: IgM is the first antibody produced during a primary immune response and is primarily found in the bloodstream. It is too large to be secreted in high quantities into colostrum.
Option B: IgG is the primary antibody transferred across the placenta, providing systemic passive immunity, not the main one transferred via colostrum.
Option C: IgD is present in very low concentrations and primarily functions as a receptor on the surface of B lymphocytes. It is not a major secretory antibody.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Immunoglobulins in colostrum and passive neonatal immunity as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a vital role in educating new mothers about the benefits of colostrum, often called 'liquid gold', for their baby's health.
Promoting early initiation of breastfeeding (within the first hour of birth) ensures the newborn receives the maximum immunological benefit from colostrum.
What if? If a mother is unable to breastfeed, the nurse should provide education on safe formula feeding. While formula does not contain maternal antibodies, it is a safe and nutritious alternative. The nurse should also assess for maternal guilt or anxiety and provide emotional support.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the keywords in the question: 'immunoglobulin' and 'colostrum'.
The question asks for the specific antibody present in colostrum.
Recall the different types of immunoglobulins and their primary functions and locations.
Differentiate between the two types of passive immunity transferred from mother to child: placental and through breast milk.
Associate IgG with placental transfer (systemic immunity).
Associate IgA with breast milk/colostrum (mucosal immunity).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Biochemistry U Satyanarayana— Part 2 (pp 421-820 of 840) pp. 349-351, 348-350

E6 Microbiology Essentials Sastry 4e Part 1 p. 149-151

Practise the full DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.