Selective IgA deficiency---some perspectives

The clinical spectrum of IgA deficiency varies from good health to respiratory, gastrointestinal, autoimmune and malignant disorders. Evaluation of B lymphocytes with surface IgA receptors in this disease reveals cap formation, decreased to normal density of IgA receptors, and IgA secretion following pokeweed stimulation. Further study of antigen-induced B-lymphocyte phenomena is needed. The presence of decreased numbers of T-cell markers in some individuals with IgA deficiency suggests a T-"helper" cell defect.