Test library
Serum IgA Test
The IgA Lab Test measures the amount of immunoglobulin A in a blood sample. IgA is the main antibody on mucosal surfaces, and the test is used to evaluate immune function and to check for IgA deficiency.
Order IgA Lab Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order IgA Lab Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $45
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The IgA Lab Test is a blood test that measures immunoglobulin A, the antibody class that protects mucosal surfaces such as the airways, gut, and mouth. IgA levels can be low, normal, or high, and each pattern points to different possibilities. The test is often part of an immune evaluation, and it is also used before certain antibody tests because IgA deficiency can affect how those results are interpreted.
What this test measures
Immunoglobulin A is one of the major antibody classes. It is found in secretions and on mucosal surfaces, where it helps block germs from attaching. Serum IgA reflects the amount circulating in the blood, which is related to but not identical to the IgA present in secretions.
The test requires a blood sample and reports a concentration, usually in milligrams per deciliter. Results are compared with age-adjusted reference ranges. Low IgA can be a sign of selective IgA deficiency, a relatively common immune finding, while high IgA can occur with liver disease, chronic infections, and some inflammatory conditions.
Providers may order an IgA level when a person has recurrent infections, chronic digestive symptoms, or an immune condition, and when celiac or other antibody tests that rely on IgA are planned. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the level with the person's history and any additional immunoglobulin results.
- Serum immunoglobulin A (IgA)
- IgA concentration in mg/dL
- Age-adjusted reference range comparison
- IgG when ordered together
- IgM when ordered together
- Complete immunoglobulin panel components when included
Why people order this test
- Evaluate immune function when infections are frequent or unusual
- Check for selective IgA deficiency before other antibody testing
- Investigate chronic digestive or respiratory symptoms with a clinician
- Add context when other immunoglobulin levels are abnormal
- Follow a known immunoglobulin abnormality over time
- Support the assessment of allergic or autoimmune conditions
How to prepare
No fasting is required for this blood test. Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory, and tell the testing provider about any medications or health conditions that could affect immunoglobulin levels.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days. A low level may indicate IgA deficiency, while a high level can accompany several different conditions. Most people with selective IgA deficiency are healthy, and a qualified healthcare provider can explain what the result means in context.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does immunoglobulin A do?
IgA is an antibody found on mucosal surfaces and in secretions. It helps protect the airways, digestive tract, and other areas from infection.
What causes a low IgA level?
Some people are born with selective IgA deficiency, while others develop low levels because of medication, illness, or another immune condition. The cause is determined with additional evaluation.
Does IgA deficiency cause symptoms?
Many people with IgA deficiency have no symptoms. Others have more frequent infections, allergies, or digestive issues, which a healthcare provider can assess.
Why is IgA checked before celiac testing?
Some celiac tests use IgA antibodies. If a person has IgA deficiency, those tests can be falsely negative, so a total IgA level helps with interpretation.
Do I need to fast for an IgA test?
No fasting is required. The sample is a standard blood draw.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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