Question 1

What is IgA deficiency?

Accepted Answer

IgA deficiency is an immune system disorder where the body produces insufficient Immunoglobulin A antibodies, which protect mucous membranes in the respiratory and digestive tracts. It is caused by a genetic defect affecting B-cell differentiation and antibody production. The Gliadin Deamidated Peptide Antibody test (IgG, IgA) is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures both IgG and IgA responses to identify gluten-related complications that standard IgA-only tests might miss.

Question 2

What causes IgA deficiency?

Accepted Answer

IgA deficiency is caused by genetic mutations that impair B-cell development and antibody production in the immune system. Most cases result from inherited genetic defects affecting the maturation of B-lymphocytes, the cells responsible for producing Immunoglobulin A. Some cases develop after viral infections, medications like phenytoin or sulfasalazine, or in association with autoimmune conditions, though the exact trigger often remains unknown.

Question 3

What is the best test for IgA deficiency?

Accepted Answer

The Gliadin Deamidated Peptide Antibody (IgG, IgA) test is the most important test for IgA deficiency because it measures both IgG and IgA antibody responses to identify gluten-related complications that people with IgA deficiency commonly experience. Since individuals with IgA deficiency cannot produce adequate IgA antibodies even when celiac disease is present, the IgG component becomes essential for accurate diagnosis. The Anti-tTG IgA test is also valuable because low or absent results help confirm the underlying IgA deficiency itself and guide your doctor to order alternative IgG-based celiac screening tests.

Question 4

When should I get tested for IgA deficiency?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience frequent respiratory infections, chronic diarrhea, unexplained digestive problems, or suspected celiac disease with negative standard test results. Testing is especially important if you have a family history of immunodeficiency disorders or autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. You should also consider testing if you have recurrent ear infections, sinus infections, or allergies that don't respond well to treatment, as these are common signs of compromised mucosal immunity.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of IgA deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Many people with IgA deficiency have no symptoms at all and discover the condition incidentally through routine blood work. When symptoms do occur, they typically include frequent respiratory infections like sinusitis, bronchitis, and ear infections, along with chronic digestive issues such as diarrhea, bloating, and food sensitivities. Some people develop autoimmune conditions, allergies, or asthma because IgA antibodies normally protect the mucous membranes in the lungs and digestive tract from infections and allergens.

Question 6

Who is at risk for IgA deficiency?

Accepted Answer

IgA deficiency affects approximately 1 in 300 to 1 in 700 people, making it one of the most common primary immunodeficiencies. People of European descent have the highest risk, while the condition is rare in Asian populations. You have increased risk if you have family members with IgA deficiency or other immune disorders, as the condition often runs in families through genetic inheritance. People with celiac disease, type 1 diabetes, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis also have higher rates of IgA deficiency.

Question 7

What happens if IgA deficiency is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated IgA deficiency can lead to chronic respiratory infections that may cause permanent lung damage over time, including bronchiectasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Recurrent gastrointestinal infections can result in malabsorption, nutritional deficiencies, and inflammatory bowel conditions. People with undiagnosed IgA deficiency face increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases, severe allergies, and celiac disease that goes undetected because standard screening tests rely on IgA antibodies. In rare cases, individuals can develop severe transfusion reactions if they receive blood products containing IgA.

Question 8

Can IgA deficiency be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, IgA deficiency is diagnosed with a simple blood test that measures serum IgA levels, with deficiency defined as IgA levels below 7 mg/dL in people over age 4. However, because IgA deficiency affects the accuracy of other common screening tests like celiac disease panels, doctors often order additional antibody tests that measure IgG instead of IgA. The Gliadin Deamidated Peptide Antibody test is particularly useful because it measures both IgA and IgG, allowing detection of gluten sensitivity even when IgA levels are low or absent.

Question 9

How is IgA deficiency treated?

Accepted Answer

There is no cure for IgA deficiency, and most cases do not require treatment beyond prompt management of infections with antibiotics when they occur. Some people with frequent infections may need preventive antibiotic therapy or immunoglobulin replacement therapy, though standard IVIG contains IgA and can cause severe allergic reactions in people with complete IgA deficiency. Treatment focuses on monitoring for associated conditions like celiac disease and autoimmune disorders, managing symptoms, and ensuring proper vaccination. People with IgA deficiency should inform healthcare providers before receiving blood transfusions to prevent potentially life-threatening reactions.

Question 10

How can I prevent complications from IgA deficiency?

Accepted Answer

You can reduce complications by practicing good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals to minimize infection risk. Maintaining a healthy diet, getting adequate sleep, managing stress, and avoiding smoking help support overall immune function. Get recommended vaccinations to protect against preventable infections, and promptly treat any respiratory or digestive infections before they become severe. Wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your IgA deficiency to ensure healthcare providers use IgA-free blood products if you ever need a transfusion.

Question 11

What can I do at home to support my immune system with IgA deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Support your immune health by eating a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and probiotic foods like yogurt and fermented vegetables to promote gut health. Stay well-hydrated, exercise regularly, and prioritize 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to maintain immune function. Use a humidifier to keep mucous membranes moist, especially during dry winter months, and consider saline nasal rinses to clear respiratory passages. Avoid alcohol and processed foods that can weaken immunity, and manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

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IgA Deficiency Blood Test

What is IgA Deficiency?

What causes IgA deficiency?

What is the best test for IgA deficiency?

When should I get tested for IgA deficiency?

References

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