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Selective deficiency of IgA - Overview

Alternative Names

IgA deficiency

Definition of Selective deficiency of IgA:

Selective deficiency of IgA is the most common immune deficiency disorder. Persons with this disorder have low or absent blood levels of a special protein called immunoglobulin A.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

IgA deficiency is inherited, which means it's passed down through families. It may be inherited as an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive trait. It is found in approximately 1 in 700 individuals of European origin. It is less common in people of other ethnicities.

References

Azar AE. Evaluation of the adult with suspected immunodeficiency. Am J Med. 2007; 120(9):764-8.

Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Shattil SS, et al. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 4th ed. Orlando, Fl: Churchill Livingstone; 2005.

Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R. Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 6th ed. London: Churchill Livingstone; 2005.

Morimoto Y. Immunodeficiency Overview. Prim Care. 2008; 35(1):159-7, viii.

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