Selective immunoglobulin A deficiency
Natural Standard Bottom Line Monograph, Copyright © 2009 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. You should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
|
|
|
If you have a Natural Standard subscription, login to view the full monograph below:
Related Terms:
|
Allergic, allergic reaction, allergic response, anaphylaxis, antibiotics, antibodies, antibody, antigen, ataxia-telangiectasia, autoimmunity, B-cells, common variable immunodeficiency, CVID, glycoprotein, Ig, IgA, immune, immune defense system, immune system, immunocompromised, immunodeficiency, immunoglobulin, immunoglobulin A, infection, intravenous immunoglobulin, plasma cells, primary immunodeficiency, recurrent infections, serum. |
 | |
|
|
Selective immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency is a primary immune deficiency that occurs when individuals are unable to produce antibodies called immunoglobulin A. |
|
|
Immunoglobulins (Ig), also called antibodies, play an essential role in the body's immune system. They detect and bind to foreign substances (like bacteria, viruses, fungi, or allergens) that enter the body. This signals other immune cells to destroy the foreign substance. The antibodies are present in the bloodstream or bound to the cell membranes of B-cells or plasma cells. |
|
|
The IgA antibodies protect body surfaces (like the nose, airway passages, digestive tract, ears, eyes, saliva, tears, and vagina) that are frequently exposed to foreign organisms and substances from outside of the body. |
|
|
The B-cells of selective IgA patients are unable to switch from making immunoglobulin M (IgM) to IgA. Healthy individuals express IgM on their B-cells. Once the B-cells come into contact with a foreign substance in the body, they become plasma cells and produce other antibodies, including IgA. |
|
|
Content available for subscribers only.
|
| |
|
|
Content available for subscribers only.
|
|
|
Content available for subscribers only.
|
|
|
Content available for subscribers only.
|
|
|
Content available for subscribers only.
|
|
|
Content available for subscribers only.
|
|
|
Content available for subscribers only.
|
|
|
Content available for subscribers only.
|
|
|
Content available for subscribers only.
|
|
|
Content available for subscribers only.
|
 |
Natural Standard Monograph
(www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2009 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or
reproduction prohibited.
|
|
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes
only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns.
Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical
practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be
interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a
qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies,
diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.
|
|