What is IgA Deficiency?

Also known as: selective IgA deficiency, immunoglobulin A deficiency

Immunoglobulin A, or IgA, is an antibody that is found primarily within the tissues of the body. Along with other antibodies (such as IgM and IgG) it helps to fight infections. IgA Deficiency is the most common immunodeficiency, and a majority of people who have this are asymptomatic. Some people with IgA deficiency can have more frequent sinopulmonary infections (sinus infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, etc), and are more likely to have giardia infection, and autoimmune diseases. If a person with IgA deficiency does not have any IgA, they are at an increased risk of developing an allergic reaction to blood transfusion products, and should use IgA depleted blood products.

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Reviewed by: Amy Feldman, MD

This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM