Study note
MicrobiologyImmune Response

Postnatal development of immunocompetence

THE CONTEXT
Immunocompetence is incomplete at birth and develops progressively as the infant grows.

Dependence on antibody production

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The infant must depend on its own antibody production from 3–6 months of age, by which time maternal antibodies disappear.

Acquisition of full competence

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Full competence for IgG is acquired at approximately 5–7 years.
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Full competence for IgA is acquired at approximately 10–15 years.
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