IgA Deficiency

Question 1

How common is IgA deficiency in the U.K.?

Answer 1

1 in 600

Higher prevalence in Europeans and Caucasians.

Question 2

What is the international definition of IgA deficiency?

Answer 2

Level < 0.07 measured on at least 2 occasions in the presence of normal IgG and IgM in children older than 4 yrs of age.

Question 3

Why is there a cut off of 4 yrs as the age to diagnose IgA deficiency?

Answer 3

IgA is the last class of antibodies to be produced by the maturing immune system.

Question 4

What % of children are symptomatic with IgA deficiency?

Answer 4

10-15%

Question 5

What drugs can cause IgA deficiency?

Answer 5

Anti-convulsants

DMARDS

Question 6

Which immunodeficiency can present as IgA deficiency?

Answer 6

CVID.

Question 7

What are the red flags for primary immunodeficiency?

Answer 7

4 or more new ear infections in a year
2 or more serious sinus infections in a year
2 or more months of antibiotics with little effect
2 or more pneumonias in a year
Faltering growth
Recurrent deep skin or organ abscesses
Persistent thrush in mouth
Need for IV antibiotics to clear infection
2 or more deep seated infections , including septicaemia
Family history of primary immunodeficiency