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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 levels of a blood protein called immunoglobulin A.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

IgA deficiency is usually inherited, which means it is passed down through families. However, cases of drug-induced IgA deficiency have been reported.

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.

See also: Celiac disease - sprue

  • Reviewed last on: 5/16/2010
  • David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Stuart I. Henochowicz, MD, FACP, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Georgetown University Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Azar AE. Evaluation of the adult with suspected immunodeficiency. Am J Med. 2007;120(9):764-768.

Ballow M. Primary immunodeficiency diseases. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 271.

Morimoto Y. Immunodeficiency overview. Prim Care. 2008;35(1):159-157.

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