Detail Description
IMMUNOGLOBULIN A
Any other names for this test?
This test is also known as quantitative immunoglobulins or IgA testing.
What is immunoglobulin?
The protein that plasma cells and leukocytes make is called immunoglobulin. Immunoglobulin performs the function of an antibody. It contributes significantly to the body's immune system by sticking itself to harmful foreign bodies like bacteria and other germs and killing them. Immunoglobulins can be found in the blood, or they can also be found on the cell's edge. Immunoglobulins are known as antibodies when they are present in the bloodstream.
What is immunoglobulin A?
Immunoglobulin A accounts for 10%–15% of total antibody levels. It is mostly found in the stomach mucosa, saliva, tears, breast milk, respiratory system, and urogenital tract. It stops germs from entering the body. The two immunoglobulins A isotypes are as follows:
- IgA1 is primarily present in serum.
- IgA2 is primarily present in secretions.
What is an immunoglobulin A lab test?
An
immunoglobulin A blood test determines the concentration of immunoglobulin A antibodies in your blood. This test is also used to detect autoimmune diseases and cancers. The
immunoglobulin A test is not very specific; therefore, it cannot identify the precise cause of IgA antibody changes in the blood. It only counts the immunoglobulin A antibodies in your blood.
What does an immunoglobulin A test measure?
This test is used to measure the immunoglobulin A in your blood. The test helps in detecting the specific type of immunoglobulin in the blood.
Why do doctors recommend this test?
Your doctor might want you to undergo an
immunoglobulin A test to diagnose the problems related to the following conditions:
- Immune System
- Intestine
- Stomach
- Lungs
- Sinuses
- Kidneys
Your doctor may also request that you undergo this test to analyze any autoimmune disorders, such as:
- Lupus
- Celiac illness
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Why do I need an immunoglobulin A test?
If you are going through these conditions, you might need to undergo this test:
- Continual diarrhea
- Unintended loss of weight
- Unrelated causes of fevers
- Skin rashes
- Symptoms of IgA Nephropathy
- Allergies
- Sickness following the trip
- HIV/AIDS or multiple myeloma
Make an appointment for
immunoglobulin A test now. if you suffer from any of the conditions mentioned above.
How do I prepare for this test?
There is no need for any special preparation for this test. However, tell your healthcare provider about any medications or dietary supplements you are taking. because factors might affect your results.
How is an immunoglobulin A test performed?
This test requires a simple blood test. Your healthcare professional will draw the blood from the vein of your hand. The procedure will take the following steps:
- Your healthcare provider will first clean the puncture area with an antibiotic solution.
- He will next wrap the upper portion of the hand in an elastic band to drive blood into the vein.
- He is now going to inject a small needle into the vein.
- Blood extracted from the needle will be placed in a test container for analysis.
- The process of taking blood has now been completed.
- A member of your medical team will remove the elastic band.
What will happen after this test?
Your healthcare provider will wrap the area where the needle went with a bandage or cotton to prevent bleeding.
Is there any risk associated with an immunoglobulin A test?
No harmful risk is attached to this test. However, you might feel a pinch of pain and a bruise due to the in and out motion of the needle. These signs will go away in two or three days.
How long does it take to get an immunoglobulin A test?
A blood test does not require too much time. The testing will take only five minutes to get done.
What do the results of this mean?
The reference ranges of an
immunoglobulin A test might vary from laboratory to laboratory.
Reference range
- 0-1 years 0-83 mg/d
- 1-3 years 20-100 mg/dL
- 4-6 years 27-195 mg/dL
- 7-9 years 34-305 mg/dL
- 10-11 years 53-204 mg/dL
- 12-13 years 58-358 mg/dL
- 14-15 years 47-249 mg/dL
- 16-19 years 61-348 mg/dL
- older than 19 years 70-400 mg/dL
Higher and lower levels of immunoglobulin an antibody, depending on age, might lead to a variety of problems. Abnormal amounts of immunoglobulin A antibodies can also cause a variety of serious diseases.
What do high levels of immunoglobulin A mean?
The high levels of immunoglobulin Antibodies in the blood could lead to several medical conditions, such as:
- Chronic infections
- Liver Illness
- IBD (Irritable Bowel Disease)
- Cancer, including leukemia and lymphoma
- Allergies
- An autoimmune condition such as celiac disease, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis
What do low levels of immunoglobulin A mean?
The low levels of immunoglobulin Antibodies in the blood could lead to several medical conditions, such as:
- Kidney disease or kidney failure
- Diabetes complications
- HIV/AIDS
If you have higher or lower levels of immunoglobulin A antibodies, it does not always mean that you have any of the problems listed above. For further information, you should speak with your doctor. If necessary, the doctor can suggest more tests.
Is an immunoglobulin A test recommended for pregnant women?
This test is recommended for pregnant women to determine the blood levels of IgA antibodies. It checks to see if the mother has sufficient antibodies to defend herself and the fetus from any diseases caused by abnormal immunoglobulin A levels in the blood.
Is there any other test that is needed besides this test?
This test alone is not enough. Your healthcare provider may ask you to undergo an immunoglobulin test for lgM and lgG to check immunoglobulin levels in your blood.
Anything else I need to know about this test?
Your doctor may request an immunoglobulin test on a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample. If your symptoms indicate that an immune disorder may be harming your spine or brain. Your saliva may be checked for IgA levels if your symptoms include frequent colds, sinus infections, or diarrhea.