Selective IgA deficiency (SIgAD) is an immune system disorder characterized by deficient levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the body, while levels of other immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM) typically remain normal. This condition is often inherited, affecting about 20% of cases; however, research suggests congenital intrauterine infection as another possible cause. The occurrence rate in the general population is approximately 1/500 to 1/700. While many patients with Selective IgA deficiency may not experience symptoms, it is a relatively common condition that can lead to severe illnesses in some individuals, despite typically being a milder form of immunodeficiency.
Clinical Presentation of SIgAD
The majority (around 90%) of individuals with IgA deficiency demonstrate no symptoms. However, there are some typical clinical presentations of selective IgA deficiency, including regular upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal infections, such as tonsillitis, rhinitis, pharyngitis, enteritis, and osteomyelitis, which are common during childhood or early adulthood. Selective IgA deficiency is correlated with other conditions like autoimmune diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, allergic reactions, and other associated diseases. Even though symptoms such as recurrent infections, allergies, and digestive system diseases are not always apparent among these patients, they should be considered with patients that show signs of IgA deficiency. For example, since IgA plays a crucial role in the secretion of the digestive tract, selective IgA deficiency patients may be more likely to develop digestive system infections like gastroenteritis or inflammatory bowel disease. Patients with IgA deficiency are also more susceptible to allergic reactions due to the lack of IgA.
Clinical manifestations of SIgAD patients
Treatment of SIgAD
Effective treatment for selective IgA deficiency is currently lacking. Patients typically need to rely on supportive and therapeutic measures to boost their immune function, which can include maintaining a healthy diet, taking vitamin supplements, treating pathogenic infections, and keeping their intestinal microbiota balanced. Alternatively, recurrent or severe infections associated with this condition can be treated with intravenous immunoglobulin G(IVIgG) infusions.
Overall, selective IgA deficiency is a common genetic disease that requires patients to be vigilant against upper respiratory and digestive tract infections and prioritize immune support and maintenance. Early medical attention should be sought if there are suspected symptoms, and patients should follow their doctor's advice when it comes to treatment. Creative Biolabs has assembled an experienced team of scientists who have been studying non-IgG antibody research for decades, dedicated to providing Therapeutic IgA Antibody Discovery solutions to clients worldwide. In addition, we can provide a full range of IgA antibodies from different species, such as rats, mice, humans, and bovines for different applications. For more detailed information, please feel free to contact us or send us an inquiry.
Reference
- Zhang J.; et al. Innate Mechanisms in Selective IgA Deficiency. Front. Immunol. 2021, 12: 649112.
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