Affected people often have chronic diarrhea from intestinal infections, frequent respiratory infections, and many develop autoimmune disease. Commonly seen autoimmune diseases associated with selective IgA deficiency are rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythematosus . People with a complete absence of IgA may develop allergies or anaphylactic shock if given gamma globulin. Genetic counseling may be of value to prospective parents with a family history of selective IgA deficiency. No specific treatment is available for IgA deficiency.
Some people gradually develop normal levels of IgA .
Individual infections should be treated with appropriate antibiotics . Autoimmune disease treatment is based on the specific autoimmune disorder . An autoimmune disorder may also develop. If you have an IgA deficiency, be sure to mention it to the provider if gamma globulin is prescribed. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition.