Immunoglobulin Diseases

Exam Cram

Immunoglobulin & Disease

In alcoholic liver disease: can get a raised IgA

IgA Deficiency

• 90% asymptomatic

• Recurrent gastroenteritis, viral URTIs or RBC transfusion reaction

• Most common Immunoglobulin deficiency

• Defined as IgA < 0.05

• Blood products often have small amounts of IgA which can drive a blood related reaction

IgE Deficiency

• Increased parasite and pulmonary infections

• Rare

IgG Deficiency

• Chronic sinusitis and bronchiectasis

IgM Deficiency

• Very rare

• Associated with autoimmune conditions

• Causes gram -ve respiratory infections or sinusitis

• Differentials: cystic fibrosis

Written in 2025.