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Selective deficiency of IgA

Definition:

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 immune globulin A.

Alternative Names:

IgA deficiency

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:

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.

Antibodies

Review Date: 7/25/2007
Reviewed By: Donald Accetta, MD, MPH, President, Allergy & Asthma Care, PC, Taunton, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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