Selective IgA Deficiency

If infections recur easily, it is worth knowing about selective IgA deficiency, the most common primary immunodeficiency, in which the body produces little or no immunoglobulin A, an antibody that mainly protects the mucous membranes of the respiratory and digestive tracts.

When to seek care? An evaluation is prudent with recurring respiratory or digestive infections, frequent allergies, or persistent discomfort of the mucous membranes.

Common features: many people have no symptoms, while others have a greater tendency toward infections, allergies, or certain autoimmune problems.

Which specialist treats it? The allergist and immunologist studies how the immune defenses work, and in children the pediatrician takes part in detection and follow-up. If you notice recurrent infections, the best course is to discuss it with these professionals for an appropriate evaluation.