Overview
Selective IgA deficiency is an immune system condition in which you lack or don’t have enough immunoglobulin A (IgA), a protein that fights infection (antibody). Most people with selective IgA deficiency don’t have recurrent infections. However, some people who have IgA deficiency experience pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, allergies, asthma and diarrhea.
Autoimmune diseases, in which your immune system attacks particular organs or tissues in your own body, can be found with selective IgA deficiency. Common autoimmune conditions found with IgA deficiency include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
Treatment
Most people with selective IgA deficiency don’t need treatment unless they have frequent infections. In some cases, treatment may include a long course of antibiotics to help prevent an infection from returning.