IgA deficiency can be cured, depending on its cause. Treatment is directed at preventing or treating diseases that may arise due to immunoglobulin A deficiency.
Patients who do not have symptoms need only follow-up. Cases of bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics, which can also be administered to prevent new infectious conditions in the most severe cases.
The treatment of IgA deficiency may further include oral preparations of immunoglobulins containing IgG and very few amounts of IgA due to the risk of anaphylactic reaction.
IgA deficiencies resulting from the use of medications are often resolved by discontinuation of the medication.
People who have suffered anaphylactic reaction after a blood transfusion or after receiving immunoglobulins should use some form of identification to prevent the administration of immunoglobulins and thus prevent anaphylaxis.
IgA deficiency is related to defects in a defense cell called B-lymphocyte. It can be caused primarily by genetic factors, drug use, and viral infections.
Although there is no cure in some cases, IgA deficiency usually develops benignly and many patients have a virtually normal life without major problems. The prognosis tends to be worse when the person develops some autoimmune disease.
The immunologist is the specialist indicated to diagnose and treat IgA deficiency.
Learn more at:
What is the function of Immunoglobulin A (IgA)?
What is IgG and IgM and what is the difference between the two?
