IMMUNOGLOBULIN A (IgA) TEST
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Report Time: Next Day Evening | Sample: Blood | Days: Except Sunday
Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is one of the most important antibodies in your immune system. It acts as the first line of defense, protecting the mucous membranes in your nose, throat, lungs, and gut. The IgA test measures the level of this antibody in your blood to diagnose immune deficiencies, recurrent infections, and autoimmune disorders like Celiac Disease.
What is Immunoglobulin A (IgA)?
Your immune system produces proteins called antibodies (immunoglobulins) to fight off bacteria, viruses, and toxins. There are several types (IgG, IgM, IgE), but IgA is unique because it is the Mucosal Guardian.
While other antibodies patrol the blood, IgA patrols the surfaces where germs usually enter the body. It is found in high concentrations in:
- Saliva and Tears
- The lining of the Respiratory Tract (Nose, Lungs)
- The Gastrointestinal Tract (Stomach, Intestines)
- Breast Milk (to protect newborns)
Why is the IgA Test Performed?
Doctors order the IgA test to evaluate the health of your immune system. It is rarely ordered alone; it is usually part of a panel checking IgG and IgM as well. Common reasons include:
- Recurrent Infections: If you suffer from frequent sinus infections, pneumonia, or diarrhea, you may have an IgA deficiency.
- Diagnosing Celiac Disease: This is critical. People with Celiac disease often have IgA deficiency. If you are IgA deficient, standard Celiac tests (tTG-IgA) will give a False Negative result.
- Autoimmune Disorders: To check for conditions like Lupus (SLE) or Rheumatoid Arthritis.
- Liver Disease: IgA levels often rise in chronic liver diseases like cirrhosis.
- Multiple Myeloma: To detect IgA Myeloma, a specific type of blood cancer where plasma cells produce abnormal IgA.
Understanding High vs. Low Levels
The results of this test can indicate different health issues depending on whether the levels are too high or too low.
1. Low IgA Levels (Deficiency)
Selective IgA Deficiency is the most common immunodeficiency disorder in the world. Many people don't even know they have it.
- Symptoms: Frequent respiratory or gut infections, allergies, or autoimmune issues.
- Risk: People with zero IgA (undetectable) are at risk of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) if they receive a blood transfusion that contains IgA.
2. High IgA Levels
Elevated levels can be caused by:
- Chronic Infection: The body is overproducing antibodies to fight a long-term infection.
- Liver Disease: The liver normally clears IgA; if damaged (e.g., alcohol cirrhosis), levels build up.
- IgA Nephropathy: Also known as Berger’s disease, where IgA deposits build up in the kidneys, causing damage.
- Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells producing excess monoclonal IgA.
IgA and Celiac Disease: The Hidden Link
How to Prepare for the Test
Preparation is simple, but following guidelines ensures accuracy:
- Fasting: No fasting is required. You can eat and drink normally.
- Medications: Some drugs like Phenytoin (for seizures) or immunosuppressants can lower IgA levels. Inform your doctor about your prescriptions.
- Sample Collection: A simple blood draw from a vein in your arm.
Reference Ranges (Normal Values)
Normal values vary by age and laboratory methods, but general adult ranges are:
| Age Group | Approximate Range (mg/dL) |
|---|---|
| Adults | 70 – 400 mg/dL |
| Children (10-18 yrs) | 60 – 350 mg/dL |
| Children (1-9 yrs) | 30 – 250 mg/dL |
| Infants | Often very low (levels build up over time) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Currently, there is no cure for genetic IgA deficiency. Treatment focuses on managing infections with antibiotics when they occur. IgA replacement therapy (like IVIG) is usually not effective because IgA does not stay in the blood long enough.
Yes, studies show that chronic stress can lower Secretory IgA (found in saliva), temporarily weakening your immune defense against colds and flu.
At Sanovra Lab, the report is generated by the Next Day Evening after sample collection.
Yes, but mention it to your doctor. An active infection might temporarily raise your IgA levels as your body fights the virus.
No, the IgA test is processed on all days Except Sunday.
Check Your Immunity Today
Whether for Celiac screening or checking immunity, Sanovra Lab ensures accurate results.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a qualified Doctor in the context of clinical findings.