Introduction to Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments of Immunoglobulin A Deficiency

The most prevalent primary immunodeficiency is immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency, characterized by the presence of a low level of IgA in the bloodstream. This disorder increases the possibility of mucous membrane infections in the ears, lungs, sinuses, as well as gastrointestinal tract.

People who suffer IgA deficiency are more likely to develop some immunodeficiency diseases. And studies have shown the functions of IgA for allergic diseases, autoimmune disorders, gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, etc.

What Is IgA?

IgA is the most common immunoglobulin in mucosal tissue in humans, with secretory IgA airway secretions accounting for around half of all IgA airway secretions. IgA is also the second most abundant protein in circulation, with roughly 90% of it occurring in monomeric form. Secretory IgA is often generated first, with systemic antibodies appearing later in the immune reaction. IgA in mucosal tissue has the ability to translocate across epithelial tissue, and to kill viruses intracellularly.

For example, IgA antibodies are found to be able to dominate the early SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody response in the serum, saliva, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients. This finding makes it possible to use IgA detection as an early diagnosis marker for detecting COVID-19.

What Is IgA Deficiency?

It’s worth noting that IgA levels that are somewhat low are not indicative of IgA deficiency. Low IgA levels often indicate a weaker immune system. Poor sleep, allergies, digestive issues, chronic stress, certain medicines are all possible reasons.

A person with IgA deficiency must have a total absence or extremely low levels of IgA in their blood, at the same time with normal IgG and IgM levels.

What causes IgA deficiency?

IgA deficiency is a health condition that affects approximately one out of every five people. This indicates that it is a hereditary condition. It can, in rare situations, also be caused by certain medicines.

What Are the Symptoms of IgA Deficiency?

It’s unclear why some individuals suffer several complications as a result of IgA deficit while others have none. The majority of patients with IgA deficiency do not report an increased level in infections. Some patients with IgA deficiency, although not all, are more susceptible to infections of the mucous membranes.

Sinusitis, lung infections, middle ear infections (otitis media), and GI tract infections, such as Giardiasis, are all possible side effects.

IgA deficiency has also been linked to a higher incidence of comorbidities. Various autoimmune disorders, such as certain blood diseases, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Graves’ disease, are among them. Approximately 20–30% of patients with IgA deficiency develop these disorders.

What Is the Treatment for IgA Deficiency?

The most common therapy for IgA deficiency is to treat infections or any related disorders that may arise. If one has IgA deficiency and recurring infections, he or she should be treated as soon as possible. This can involve antibiotics for bacterial infections.

Vaccinations against common illnesses, such as the seasonal influenza vaccination and the pneumococcal vaccine, are also suggested.