Expert Reviewed By: Dr. Brandon Colby MD
Understanding Increased Circulating IgA Levels
Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is an antibody that plays a critical role in the immune system, primarily in protecting mucosal surfaces from infections. Increased circulating IgA levels have been associated with several health conditions, including celiac disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and IgA nephropathy. Understanding the underlying causes and implications of elevated IgA levels is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.
Diagnosing Conditions Associated with Increased IgA Levels
Diagnosing diseases related to increased circulating IgA levels often involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Specific diagnostic approaches depend on the suspected underlying condition:
Celiac Disease
In celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion, increased IgA levels are often detected in the form of tissue transglutaminase (TTG) antibodies. A study examining the correlation between TTG IgA levels and small intestinal histopathological changes in celiac disease patients in Saudi Arabia found that TTG IgA levels could be a reliable marker for diagnosing the condition (source). Duodenal biopsy is also commonly performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD, a progressive lung disease characterized by airflow limitation, has also been linked to increased circulating IgA levels. A study found that increased circulating autoantibodies against cytokeratin 18 (CK18) and cytokeratin 19 (CK19) are closely related to the progression of COPD and play an essential role in lung injury (source). Diagnosis of COPD typically involves pulmonary function tests, chest imaging, and assessment of symptoms.
IgA Nephropathy
IgA nephropathy, a kidney disease resulting from the deposition of IgA in the kidney's filtering units, can lead to progressive kidney damage. A genome-wide association study provided insights into the genetic regulation of IgA levels and its potential role in human diseases, including IgA nephropathy (source). Diagnosis of IgA nephropathy typically involves blood and urine tests, kidney imaging, and sometimes a kidney biopsy.
Genetic Testing for Disorders Associated with Increased Circulating IgA Levels
Genetic testing can be a valuable tool in understanding the underlying causes of increased circulating IgA levels and their associated disorders. It can help identify genetic variants that contribute to disease susceptibility, inform prognosis, and guide personalized treatment strategies.
Uncovering Genetic Susceptibility
Genetic testing can identify individuals who may be at an increased risk of developing disorders associated with elevated IgA levels. For example, in celiac disease, genetic testing for HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes can help determine the likelihood of developing the condition. Similarly, genetic testing can provide insights into the genetic regulation of IgA levels and its potential role in IgA nephropathy and other diseases (source).
Informing Prognosis and Treatment
Understanding the genetic factors contributing to increased circulating IgA levels and their associated disorders can help inform prognosis and guide treatment decisions. For example, in IgA nephropathy, specific genetic variants may be associated with a higher risk of disease progression, which can help clinicians tailor treatment plans accordingly. In celiac disease, genetic testing can help confirm the diagnosis and guide dietary management.
Personalized Medicine and Future Applications
As our understanding of the genetic factors contributing to increased circulating IgA levels and their associated disorders continues to expand, the potential for personalized medicine in these conditions grows. Genetic testing can help identify individuals at risk, inform prognosis, and guide targeted treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
About The Expert Reviewer
Dr. Brandon Colby MD is a US physician specializing in the personalized prevention of disease through the use of genomic technologies. He’s an expert in genetic testing, genetic analysis, and precision medicine. Dr. Colby is also the Founder of and the author of Outsmart Your Genes.
Dr. Colby holds an MD from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, an MBA from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, and a degree in Genetics with Honors from the University of Michigan. He is an Affiliate Specialist of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG), an Associate of the American College of Preventive Medicine (ACPM), and a member of the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC)