IgA deficiency is when the body doesn't make enough IgA. IgA is an antibody. Antibodies are part of the immune system (germ-fighting system). 

For most kids, having less IgA doesn't cause any problems. Other parts of their immune system work harder to make up for the smaller amount of IgA. But some kids with IgA deficiency can get lots of infections and have other medical problems.

• Give your child any prescribed medicine as directed.
• Help your child take steps to avoid infections, such as:
  • Washing hands well and often
  • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
  • Getting all recommended vaccines
• There is a risk that children who have IgA deficiency will have an allergic reaction to a blood transfusion. Talk to your health care provider about whether your child needs a medical alert bracelet with this information.
• Talk to your health care provider about whether other family members should get tested for IgA deficiency.

Your child:

• Has a cold or cough that is severe or lasts for more than a week
• Has diarrhea for more than 3 days
• Has joint pain
• Gets sick a lot or has fevers often

What causes IgA deficiency? The exact cause of IgA deficiency isn't known. It runs in certain families, so there can be a genetic (inherited) cause. Sometimes, it appears to be triggered by a virus or medicine. 

What kinds of infections can happen in kids with IgA deficiency? Some children with IgA deficiency get more frequent or severe infections. Since IgA is particularly active in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, they can get: 

• Ear infections
• Sinusitis: inflammation of the sinuses, often leading to congestion, facial pain, and headaches
• Bronchitis: inflammation of the bronchial tubes in the lung, causing coughing, mucus production, and sometimes fever
• Pneumonia: infection of the lungs, which can be bacterial, viral, or fungal, leading to symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing
• Gastroenteritis: irritation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by viruses or bacteria, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain

What medical problems can IgA deficiency cause? Most kids with IgA deficiency do not have any other medical problems. But people with IgA deficiency are more likely than others to have:

• Autoimmune problems (where the immune system attacks itself)
• Allergies
• Asthma