What Is Immunoglobulin A Test
An immunoglobulin A test measures the level of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in your bloodstream. This test is recommended to identify whether you are at a risk of developing any autoimmune disease and other malignancies, such as cancers that affect the bone marrow, blood and immune system, chronic infections, and genetic disorders. This test is administered along with IgG test to arrive at conclusive and holistic diagnostic results.
Immunoglobulin A are the most commonly found antibodies in your body, produced by your immune system to identify and eliminate germs. These antibodies are vital in protecting your digestive system and respiratory tract from potential infections. The IgA levels in your body are usually high around the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory passages, saliva, gastric juices and mucous membranes.
About IgA Test
Learn everything about IgA Testing before you book lab test online. Understand the why, how, and what of this test.
Why Do I Need IgA Blood Test?
Your primary healthcare physician will recommend an IgA level test if you have any sort of infection, particularly in the intestines, stomach, lungs, and sinuses.
Opt for an IgA test right away if you or your loved ones experience:
- Infections in the Sinus, throat and ear
- Respiratory infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia – These respiratory tract and lung infections are usually caused by bacterial agents.
- Infections caused by Cytomegalovirus: A virus related to chicken pox can lead to these infections.
- Yeast infections in the mouth, eyes, or the digestive tract
- IgA nephropathy symptoms: Blood in the urine (hematuria), pain in the sides of your back, swelling in the ankles (oedema) and high protein content in the urine (proteinuria) are some of the key symptoms of IgA nephropathy.
- HIV/AIDS: In case of an HIV/AIDS infection, the natural production of IgA gets compromised, which disbalances the IgA:IgM ratios in the mucosal fluids.
- Persistent diarrhoea
- Unintentional weight loss
- Skin rashes and other allergies
You will also be recommended to go for this diagnostic IgA blood test if your physician suspects you to be at risk due to your past medical history or family history.
How To Prepare For IgA Blood Test?
To prepare for IgA Test, follow these steps: Consult your healthcare provider, inform them about medications, avoid intense exercise, follow fasting instructions if given, and provide accurate medical history.
What Happens During IgA Blood Testing?
A IgA Blood test only takes a few minutes.
- As per the scheduled time of the blood test, a lab technician who usually takes blood samples will arrive.
- A thin needle will be used to draw blood from your arm’s vein.
- The needle might cause a mild pinch and some discomfort.
- The lab technician then fills a collection tube with blood and then removes the needle from the skin.
- They place a small bandage on the arm.
Finding IgA Test
Should you book blood test online to check your IgA levels or go to the nearest clinic and get it done by a medical professional? Let’s Find Out
Can I Take IgA Lab Test At Home?
Yes, the IgA blood testing can be taken at home. HealthcareOnTime’s at-home lab testing service in association with Thyrocare, provides a convenient and efficient way to get important medical tests done from the comfort of your place, without the need for a doctor’s visit or a trip to a lab. It is always preferable to consult with a healthcare provider about any concerns regarding your test results.
How Much Does IgA Test Cost?
The IgA test price varies depending on various factors, such as where you live, the healthcare provider or a laboratory that performs the test, and whether or not you have health insurance coverage. You can check the IgA blood test price on our website. We offer this test at INR 729. Our prices are lower than the average test prices without compromising on quality.
Test Result Interpretation
You received your IgA blood test results but still need help determining if they fall under the normal range. Read this section to understand whether your results are within the Immunoglobulin A normal range or not.
What Does Immunoglobulin A Test Results Mean?
The IgA test results can be interpreted as high or low IgA levels. High IgA levels from health conditions like chronic infections, liver disease, cancer such as leukaemia, allergies, and autoimmune disorders like lupus can make you weak.
Low levels of IgA happen when you suffer from kidney disease, kidney failure, diabetes complications, or HIV/AIDS. However, having low or high IgA levels doesn’t indicate you’ll have to experience any of these conditions. Thus, getting your IgA blood test results checked out by your doctor is crucial for better interpretation.
What Is Immunoglobulin A Test Normal Range?
Immunoglobulin A normal range for different age groups is:
Age Group (years) | IgA Normal Range |
0-1 | 1-83 mg/dL |
1-5 | 20-152 mg/dL |
5-10 | 33-274 mg/dL |
7-9 | 572-1474 mg/dL |
10-17 | 42-378 mg/dL |
Above 18 | 60-400 mg/dL |
What Medical Conditions Can Cause High Immunoglobulin A Level?
Medical conditions responsible for causing high immunoglobulin A levels in your body are:
- Chronic infections
- Liver Disease: Liver disease of liver failure, which is accompanied by symptoms, such as jaundice, bleeding-proneness, sleepiness, mental confusion (hepatic encephalopathy), etc.
- Cancer such as leukaemia or lymphoma
- Allergies
- Autoimmune disorders like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and celiac disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
What Medical Conditions Can Cause Low Immunoglobulin A Level?
Medical conditions responsible for causing low immunoglobulin A levels in your body are:
- Kidney Failure or Kidney Disease
- Diabetes Complications
- HIV/AIDS
- Steroids and other medicines that further weaken your immune system
Why Choose HealthcareOnTime?
Convenience at Your Doorstep
Ever wished for healthcare that comes to you? HealthcareOnTime makes it a reality with doorstep lab testing, cutting out clinic hassles. No more queues or travel stress. Experience at-home sample collection, prioritizing health without time constraints. —your path to health, now just a doorstep away!
Affordable Testing with Thyrocare Partnership
Experience cost-effective lab testing at-home with HealthcareOnTime’s exclusive partnership with Thyrocare. Benefit from competitive prices while ensuring precise results. Our collaboration with Thyrocare Technologies Limited guarantees affordability without compromising on the accuracy and reliability of your lab test.
Comprehensive Health Screening
At HealthcareOnTime, we’ve got your back with our comprehensive health checkup packages! Take charge of your well-being by booking online. These packages empower you to stay ahead, catching potential issues early for timely management. It’s like having a health ally, and making informed decisions for a healthier, happier life.
Sources
Ref Links:
- https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/immunoglobulins-blood-test/
- https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/immunoglobulin-test
- https://gpnotebook.com/simplepage.cfm?ID=147849251
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FAQs Around Immunoglobulin a (IgA) Test
What is IgA deficiency?
IgA deficiency is a medical condition where a person has lower than normal levels of Immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies in their blood, leading to a potential increased susceptibility to infections in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.
How can I reduce my high IgA Levels?
To reduce high IgA levels, focus on a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and zinc. Limit alcohol and processed foods. Stay hydrated with water and regularly monitor with healthcare providers.
Is IgA Deficiency Serious?
IgA deficiency’s seriousness varies. While some experience mild effects, others may face increased infection risks. Early diagnosis and management are vital.
How common is IgA deficiency?
Selective IgA deficiency is more prevalent among Caucasians (of European descent), with an estimated occurrence of 1 in 500 individuals. However, incidence rates may vary based on geographical location and ethnic background
Is IgA deficiency a primary immunodeficiency?
Yes, IgA deficiency is considered a primary immunodeficiency. It is characterized by lower than normal levels of Immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies, which are crucial for immune defense, especially in the mucous membranes. Primary immunodeficiencies are usually genetic and occur due to defects in the immune system’s development or function. IgA deficiency is one of the most common primary immunodeficiency disorders.
Is IgA treatable?
IgA deficiency is not curable, but complications can be managed. Prophylactic antibiotics and immunoglobulin replacement therapy may be used in some cases to reduce infection risks.
