Description
An Immunoglobulin A (IgA), Quantitative, Serum test measures the amount of IgA in the blood. IgA is an antibody that plays an important role in the body's immune defenses, particularly along the mucosal surfaces of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts.
What Does This Test Evaluate?
IgA testing can provide information about:
- Immune system function
- IgA deficiency
- Abnormally elevated immunoglobulin levels
- Certain immune and inflammatory conditions
- Interpretation of celiac disease antibody testing
Why Test IgA?
Total IgA is commonly ordered along with tissue transglutaminase IgA (tTG-IgA) when evaluating for celiac disease. Individuals with IgA deficiency may have a falsely negative tTG-IgA result, making the quantitative serum IgA level important for proper interpretation.
Abnormally low IgA levels may occur with selective IgA deficiency or other immune disorders. Elevated levels may be associated with chronic inflammation, infection, liver disease, autoimmune conditions, or certain blood disorders.
An abnormal IgA result does not establish a specific diagnosis and may require additional evaluation.
Specimen: Serum (blood draw) Preparation: No fasting typically required
