OVERVIEW:
What is the IgA lab test?
An IgA lab test is a blood test that measures the level of immunoglobulin A in the blood.
Why is the IgA lab test done?
An IgA lab test is done in order to:
- Evaluate an individual’s immune system status,
- Monitor the level of immunoglobulin A,
- Detect an excess or deficiency of immunoglobulin A.
What does an IgA lab test measure?
An IgA lab test measures the level of immunoglobulin A in the blood. Immunoglobulins are proteins that play a vital role in the body’s immune system. IgA comprises about 15% of the total immunoglobulins. It is present in blood, saliva, respiratory and gastric secretions, and breast milk.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
There are no known risks associated with this test.
How should I prepare for this test?
This test does not require any special preparation.
How will this test feel?
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others may feel only a prick or stinging sensation.
Which conditions are associated with an increased immunoglobulin level?
Autoimmune disease, hepatitis (inflammation of liver), cirrhosis (scarring of liver), chronic infection, viral infection such as HIV, and multiple myeloma (cancer of the plasma cells) raise the level of immunoglobulins.
What happens during an immunoglobulins blood test?
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube. This usually takes less than five minutes.
The normal range of IgA in a healthy adult is between 80-350 mg/dL.
An IgA lab test is done in order to:
- Evaluate an individual’s immune system status,
- Monitor the level of immunoglobulin A,
- Detect an excess or deficiency of immunoglobulin A.