Immunoglobulin IgA: what the blood test measures
Immunoglobulin IgA measures the level of immunoglobulin A, the most abundant antibody in mucosal secretions. IgA plays a critical role in mucosal immunity of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. Deficiency is the most common primary immunodeficiency, and elevated levels may indicate chronic infection or inflammation.
Turnaround up to 72 hours, estimate Turnaround: up to 72 hours after your blood draw (estimate).
Immunoglobulin IgA: what this test measures
This test measures the serum concentration of immunoglobulin A. IgA is produced by plasma cells in mucosal tissues and protects body surfaces exposed to the external environment.
Immunoglobulin IgA: why this value matters
IgA deficiency affects approximately 1 in 500 people and may be associated with recurrent respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. IgA levels must also be adequate for coeliac disease antibody tests (anti-TTG, endomysium) to be reliable.
Immunoglobulin IgA: how the blood test works
- Referral
- No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
- The draw
- A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
- Results
- Turnaround: up to 72 hours after your blood draw (estimate).
- Where
- 650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites
Immunoglobulin IgA: when is testing worthwhile?
Testing could be indicated for recurrent sinopulmonary or gastrointestinal infections, suspected immunodeficiency, alongside coeliac disease testing (to validate IgA-based tests), or evaluation of IgA nephropathy.
Immunoglobulin IgA: symptoms of a high or low value
Low Levels
Low IgA may be associated with recurrent infections (sinusitis, pneumonia, gastrointestinal), autoimmune conditions, and allergies. Many IgA-deficient individuals are asymptomatic.
High Levels
Elevated IgA may indicate chronic infections, IgA nephropathy, liver disease (particularly alcoholic), inflammatory bowel disease, or IgA myeloma.
Immunoglobulin IgA: lifestyle and this value
If IgA deficiency is confirmed, discuss vaccination strategies and infection prevention with your healthcare provider. Wear a medical alert bracelet as IgA-deficient patients may have transfusion reactions to IgA-containing blood products.
Immunoglobulin IgA: frequently asked questions
Why test IgA with coeliac disease screening?
Anti-TTG and endomysium tests are IgA-based. If you are IgA deficient, these tests may give false-negative results. IgG-based alternatives must be used instead.
Is IgA deficiency treatable?
There is no specific treatment to replace IgA. Management focuses on prompt treatment of infections and awareness of the condition.
Can IgA deficiency cause blood transfusion problems?
Yes. Some IgA-deficient patients develop anti-IgA antibodies, which can cause anaphylactic transfusion reactions. Washed or IgA-depleted blood products may be needed.
Results without a doctor's assessment
You receive your values with the unit and reference range. A doctor's assessment is not part of this site. Discuss your results with your GP for explanation and treatment decisions.
Immunoglobulin IgA
€20,-