From the Research
Elevated immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels in the blood, known as IgA hypergammaglobulinemia, typically warrant further investigation rather than immediate treatment, as indicated by the most recent study in 2023 1. If you have high IgA levels, consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation as this finding may indicate underlying conditions such as liver disease, chronic infections, autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain blood disorders including IgA monoclonal gammopathy or multiple myeloma. No specific medication directly treats high IgA; instead, management focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Your doctor will likely recommend additional tests including:
- Complete blood count
- Liver function tests
- Kidney function assessment
- Possibly specialized tests like serum protein electrophoresis. IgA is an important antibody that helps protect mucous membranes in the respiratory and digestive tracts from infections, so its elevation often signals that your immune system is responding to something, as discussed in a study from 2011 2. While waiting for your appointment, maintain your regular medication schedule and report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. It's also worth noting that IgA has multifaceted anti-, non-, and pro-inflammatory functions that can be exploited for different immunotherapeutical strategies, as mentioned in a study from 2011 3. However, the most recent and highest quality study from 2023 1 provides the most relevant information for clinical practice, highlighting the importance of evaluating the prevalence of clinical manifestations in patients with IgA deficiency. In terms of the pathophysiology of IgA elevation, a study from 2012 4 discusses the role of specific immunoglobulin isotypes in human autoimmune disease, but the most recent study from 2023 1 provides more relevant information for clinical decision-making. Another study from 2014 5 explores the association between IgA deficiency and autoimmunity, but again, the most recent study from 2023 1 takes precedence in guiding clinical practice.