A condition in which your immune system does not produce enough immunoglobulin A (IgA), which helps the body fight infections in the airways, GI (gastrointestinal) tract, sinuses, and eyes, is called IgA deficiency. Moreover, those who develop it may experience health problems that occur more frequently and are more severe.
In other words, IgA deficiency is a genetic disorder in which the body does not produce enough IgA. Sometimes, this condition is called SIgAD, selective IgA deficiency, or low IgA. In general, immunoglobulins are specific proteins produced by the immune system that make up the body’s defense. It helps protect the eyes, mouth, airways, ears, and digestive system from bacteria, viruses, and other germs that can cause infections. Furthermore, IgA deficiency is a type of primary immunodeficiency disorder that negatively affects the immune system, preventing it from working properly. Normally, the immune system automatically detects intruders and substances that should not be in the body and destroys them.
Usually, in people with IgA deficiency, B cells (a type of white blood cell) do not function properly. They are responsible for producing infection-fighting proteins known as antibodies. Most of the time, people with this disorder do not experience symptoms or complications.
What Are The Symptoms of IgA Deficiency?
Frequent and severe infections are often the primary symptom of IgA deficiency. While people do not experience symptoms that they can feel or notice, they are more prone to the following infections. These include:
- Eye infections (particularly pink eye)
- Sinus infections
- Ear infections
- Bronchitis
- Upper respiratory infections
- Pneumonia
If you experience frequent infections or symptoms that resemble any of the previous infections, immediately contact your healthcare professional for a diagnosis and prompt treatment. Leaving these infections untreated may lead to serious and even life-threatening complications.
Causes and Risk Factors
IgA deficiency is a genetic condition that occurs when certain abnormal genes are passed from the biological parents to their biological children. It often occurs in an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive pattern. However, some people may develop this condition as an adverse reaction to one of the following medicines. Check some examples below:
- Immunosuppressants – This group of medications is used to suppress the immune system in people with autoimmune disorders or who have recently received an organ transplant.
- Penicillamine
- Phenytoin
- Sulfasalazine
Experts have also found some factors that may increase the risk of developing IgA deficiency. Check some of them below:
- A family history of the disease – People who have a parent or sibling are about 50 times more likely to develop this condition compared to those who do not have relatives with this genetic disorder.
- Race – White people and those who have a European ethnic background are at higher risk for IgA deficiency. According to some data, about 1 in 500 white people have this disorder.
- Other genetic syndromes – One of them is ataxia-telangiectasia. It usually occurs along with IgA deficiency.
What Are The Long-Term Effects of IgA Deficiency?
While most people do not experience any complications, some of them may develop certain serious conditions. Check some complications below:
- Celiac disease
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- An increased risk of allergies, asthma, chronic (long-term) diarrhea, and gastrointestinal diseases (including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease)
- Chronic gut infections
- Eye or skin infections
- Type 1 diabetes
- Anaphylaxis – This is a dangerous complication that requires immediate medical attention. Otherwise, it may lead to death.
This document does not contain a full list of complications. However, doctors may help reduce the risk or even prevent the complications listed above. In addition, there is no way to prevent low IgA because doctors do not fully understand what exactly causes it.
Can IgA Deficiency Cause Fatigue?
No, this condition does not make you tired directly. Moreover, fatigue is a common symptom of autoimmune disorders that may also occur along with IgA deficiency. If you experience continuous weakness, sleepiness, and tiredness, discuss it with your healthcare professional.
Diagnosis
Most of the time, low IgA is diagnosed accidentally while doctors test you for other reasons. Typically, a blood test is enough to diagnose this condition. When doctors suspect this genetic disorder based on your medical and family history, they will also perform a blood test to confirm or rule it out.
Treatment
In general, there are no specific treatments for this condition. That’s why the goal of the treatment is to ease the symptoms, prevent serious complications, and improve your quality of life. Usually, doctors recommend antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections and IVIG infusions to strengthen the immune system. Some people who have autoimmune disorders along with low IgA may need additional treatment to manage their symptoms. For more details, discuss it with your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IgA deficiency a serious condition?
IgA deficiency is often mild, and many people do not experience symptoms or need treatment. However, some people may develop frequent or severe infections, allergies, or autoimmune conditions. The severity can vary from person to person.
Is IgA deficiency contagious?
No, IgA deficiency is not contagious because it is primarily related to genetic or immune-system factors. You cannot develop IgA deficiency by being around someone who has the condition.
How is IgA deficiency diagnosed?
Doctors usually diagnose IgA deficiency with a blood test that measures the amount of IgA in the blood. They may also measure other immunoglobulins and perform additional tests to evaluate how well the immune system functions. A healthcare professional may consider a person’s age and medical history when interpreting the results.
Can IgA deficiency go away?
In some children, low IgA levels may improve as the immune system matures. However, persistent selective IgA deficiency can continue throughout adulthood. Regular medical follow-up may help determine whether IgA levels change over time.
Can people with IgA deficiency live a normal life?
Yes, most people with IgA deficiency can live normal, healthy lives, particularly when they do not experience frequent infections or other complications. Those who develop recurrent infections or autoimmune conditions may need regular medical care.
Can IgA deficiency cause allergies?
IgA deficiency may be associated with a higher risk of allergic conditions, including asthma, allergic rhinitis, and certain food allergies. However, having IgA deficiency does not necessarily mean that a person will develop allergies.
Can IgA deficiency cause digestive problems?
Some people with IgA deficiency develop gastrointestinal problems, including chronic diarrhea and recurrent gastrointestinal infections. IgA deficiency is also associated with celiac disease and some inflammatory bowel diseases.
Can IgA deficiency affect vaccines?
People with IgA deficiency can generally receive routine vaccines, but vaccination decisions may depend on the person’s overall immune function and any other immune system problems they have. A healthcare professional can recommend an appropriate vaccination schedule.
Can IgA deficiency cause problems with blood transfusions?
Some people with severe IgA deficiency can develop antibodies against IgA. In rare cases, this can cause a serious allergic reaction to blood products containing IgA. People known to have IgA deficiency should tell their healthcare providers and blood bank before receiving a transfusion, especially if they have previously experienced a transfusion reaction.
Should family members be tested for IgA deficiency?
Because selective IgA deficiency can occur in families, healthcare professionals may consider testing close relatives who have recurrent infections, autoimmune conditions, or other symptoms suggestive of an immune system disorder. Routine testing of every family member is not necessarily required and should be discussed with a healthcare professional. If you have additional questions, ask your physician.
