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Research Immunoglobulin A, Qn, Serum
Immune System

Immunoglobulin A, Qn, Serum

Other names: Total IgA (mg/dL), ImmunogA

Optimal Result: 87 - 352 mg/dL, or 0.87 - 3.52 g/L.

What is Immunoglobulin A (IgA)?

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is one of the five major classes of immunoglobulins (antibodies) produced by the immune system. It plays a central role in mucosal immunity, acting as the body’s first line of defense against pathogens at mucosal surfaces such as the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and genitourinary tracts. IgA is also found in secretions like saliva, tears, and breast milk, where it helps prevent the colonization of harmful microbes.

Total IgA and Its Clinical Importance

Total IgA, measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), reflects the overall concentration of IgA in the bloodstream. It is the second most abundant antibody in serum and the predominant immunoglobulin in mucosal secretions. Normal levels in adults typically range from 70 to 400 mg/dL, although values may vary depending on age and individual health status.

Monitoring Total IgA levels is vital in clinical immunology. It provides valuable insights into the function of the mucosal immune system and helps diagnose and manage a range of immune-related conditions.

What Can Elevated or Low IgA Levels Indicate?

  • Elevated Total IgA may suggest:

    • Chronic infections

    • Liver diseases (e.g., cirrhosis)

    • Autoimmune conditions like celiac disease

    • IgA monoclonal gammopathies, including IgA myeloma

  • Low Total IgA levels can point to:

    • Selective IgA deficiency, the most common primary immunodeficiency

    • An increased risk of recurrent infections, particularly of the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems

Understanding IgA Deficiency

Selective IgA deficiency is often genetic and may be inherited. Many individuals with this condition are asymptomatic, but others may experience recurrent infections, allergies, or autoimmune disorders. There is currently no cure, and standard immunotherapy (such as IVIG) is not effective in treating IgA deficiency.

Potential Complications of IgA Deficiency Include:

  • Asthma

  • Chronic diarrhea

  • Ear and eye infections

  • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)

  • Respiratory infections like pneumonia

What Are Immunoglobulins?

Immunoglobulins, or antibodies, are glycoproteins produced by plasma cells. They are essential to the immune system’s ability to recognize and neutralize foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Each immunoglobulin class (IgA, IgG, IgM, IgE, IgD) has distinct roles, structures, and distributions within the body.

IgA is particularly notable for its abundance in mucosal tissues and its protective role against environmental antigens encountered through ingestion, inhalation, or contact.

What does it mean if your Immunoglobulin A, Qn, Serum result is too high?

What Do Elevated IgA Levels Mean?

Increased levels of Immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the blood are nonspecific but may be associated with a variety of medical conditions. IgA is an antibody primarily found in mucosal areas—such as the lungs, sinuses, gastrointestinal tract, and urogenital tract—and in body fluids like saliva, tears, and blood. Elevated IgA levels may signal ongoing immune system activity, inflammation, or abnormal antibody production.

Potential Causes of Elevated IgA Levels

Elevated IgA can be seen in several conditions, including:

  • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus/SLE)

  • Chronic liver disease, including hepatitis and cirrhosis

  • Chronic infections and inflammatory diseases

    • Pulmonary conditions (e.g., chronic bronchitis)

    • Gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD)

  • Kidney disease, particularly IgA nephropathy (Berger’s disease)

  • Metabolic disorders, including:

    • Type 2 diabetes and its complications

    • Obesity and metabolic syndrome

  • Alcohol use disorder

  • Sarcoidosis (in some cases)

  • Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (a rare immunodeficiency)

Elevated IgA and Blood Cancers

Significantly high IgA levels may indicate a plasma cell disorder or a lymphoproliferative malignancy. These conditions often involve an abnormal overproduction of one immunoglobulin type (monoclonal gammopathy), sometimes at the expense of others:

  • Multiple myeloma (especially IgA myeloma)

  • Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)

  • Lymphoma

  • Waldenström macroglobulinemia

Important Considerations

Elevated IgA does not automatically indicate a serious disease. Certain medications, infections, or temporary inflammation can affect immunoglobulin levels. Results should always be interpreted in the context of your symptoms, history, and other test findings.

If your IgA levels are elevated, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and to determine if additional testing is needed.

What does it mean if your Immunoglobulin A, Qn, Serum result is too low?

What Is Immunoglobulin A (IgA) Deficiency?

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is a type of antibody—an important protein produced by your immune system to help defend your body against infections. IgA is found mainly in the mucous membranes of the respiratory and digestive tracts, as well as in saliva, tears, and breast milk. It plays a key role in protecting these areas from bacteria, viruses, and other harmful invaders.

What Is IgA Deficiency?

IgA deficiency means your body produces very low levels—or none—of this important antibody. It is the most common primary (genetic) immunodeficiency. Most cases are present from birth, but rarely, IgA deficiency can develop later in life due to other medical conditions such as:

  • Certain types of leukemia

  • Kidney disorders (like nephrotic syndrome)

  • Intestinal diseases (such as enteropathy)

  • Ataxia-telangiectasia, a rare inherited condition affecting muscle coordination and the immune system

What Are the Symptoms?

Most people with IgA deficiency do not experience any symptoms and may never know they have it. However, some individuals may develop:

  • Frequent infections, especially of the sinuses, lungs, or gastrointestinal tract

  • Allergies, including asthma

  • Digestive problems, such as chronic diarrhea

  • Autoimmune conditions, such as:

    • Celiac disease

    • Lupus

    • Rheumatoid arthritis

A small number of people with IgA deficiency may also develop anti-IgA antibodies, which can put them at risk for rare but severe allergic reactions if they receive blood transfusions.

How Common Is It?

Selective IgA deficiency affects approximately 1 in 300 to 1 in 500 people. However, only about 25% to 50% of those with the condition experience symptoms; most live normal, healthy lives without complications.

How Is It Managed?

There is no specific cure for IgA deficiency. Treatment focuses on managing infections promptly, monitoring for complications, and addressing any associated autoimmune or allergic conditions. Most people do not require special treatment, but it’s important to inform healthcare providers about the condition, especially before receiving blood products.

In summary: IgA deficiency is common and often harmless, but it can increase the risk of certain infections and autoimmune disorders in some people. Most individuals with IgA deficiency live healthy lives with little or no impact from the condition.

Frequently asked questions

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