Immunoglobulin A (IgA)
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Group of blood proteins involved in immune function
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🧪 What is Immunoglobulin A (IgA)?
Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is one of the five major classes of antibodies. It plays a crucial role in mucosal immunity — the body's first line of defense in areas exposed to the external environment.
- Found predominantly in mucous secretions (respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, saliva, tears, and breast milk)
- Exists in two forms:
- Serum IgA (monomeric) – circulates in the blood
- Secretory IgA (sIgA) – dimeric, found in secretions
❓ Why is the IgA Test Done?
To:
- Evaluate immune function and detect immunodeficiencies
- Support diagnosis of chronic infections or autoimmune diseases
- Monitor liver disease, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Diagnose IgA nephropathy (Berger's disease)
- Screen for multiple myeloma and monoclonal gammopathy (IgA subtype)
📊 Normal Ranges
Age Group | IgA Reference Range |
|---|---|
Adults | 70 – 400 mg/dL (may vary slightly by lab) |
Children | Varies by age; starts low and rises with age |
📈 Interpretation of Results
Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
High IgA | Suggests chronic infections, autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus), liver disease, IgA myeloma, or IgA nephropathy |
Low IgA | Indicates selective IgA deficiency (most common primary immunodeficiency), CVID, or protein-losing conditions |
Low IgA may also affect the accuracy of serologic tests like celiac disease antibodies (which are IgA-based).
🧠 Associated Organs & Conditions
System | Associated Conditions |
|---|---|
Immune System | Selective IgA deficiency, Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID) |
Gastrointestinal | Celiac disease, IBD |
Renal | IgA nephropathy |
Hematologic | IgA multiple myeloma, MGUS (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance) |
Autoimmune | RA, SLE, chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis |
🔄 Related / Follow-Up Tests
- Total Immunoglobulin panel (IgG, IgM, IgE)
- Tissue transglutaminase IgA (tTG-IgA) – for celiac screening
- Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) – for monoclonal gammopathies
- Serum Free Light Chains (κ/λ ratio) – if myeloma is suspected
- Renal function tests & urine analysis – for IgA nephropathy
- IgG-based celiac tests – if IgA is low
✅ Fasting Required?
Test | Fasting Requirement |
|---|---|
IgA | ❌ Not required |
📝 Summary Table
Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
What | Measures Immunoglobulin A (IgA), key for mucosal immunity |
Why | To assess immune status, diagnose autoimmune, gastrointestinal, or plasma cell disorders |
Normal Range | 70–400 mg/dL (adults) |
High Result | Chronic infection, autoimmune disease, liver disease, IgA myeloma |
Low Result | Selective IgA deficiency, CVID, protein loss |
Follow-up Tests | tTG-IgA, SPEP, light chains, renal workup |
Associated Conditions | Celiac disease, IgA nephropathy, SLE, CVID, myeloma |
Fasting Required | ❌ No |
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