Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibodies
Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies are proteins made by the body's
natural defense system (immune system). They attack and destroy things that
they recognize as different from the body's normal healthy tissues, such as
bacteria and viruses.
IgG antibodies are found in all body fluids and are very important
in fighting infections. They are the most common of the five major types of
antibodies. IgG antibodies can cross the placenta in a pregnant woman to help
protect the fetus.
Last Revised:
August 6, 2012
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Joseph O'Donnell, MD - Hematology, Oncology