QuestionI have a male relative that is 62. He has recently had a white count test result of over 40,000. A sed rate well over 140, and a IGA of over 5,000. What could be the causes of these readings, especially in combination? Thank you in advance!
AnswerHi Jennifer. A white count of over 40,000 and a sed rate of more than 140 indicates a moderate to severe infection of some kind. IgA is an immunoglobulin (antibody) and is one of the most common immunoglobulins. It is mainly present in body secretions and is the chief antibody in the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tract and in saliva and tears. The IgA test can help the doctor determine where the infection may be coming from, but I still say that your relative needs further testing (bloodwork, x-rays, or CAT scans) to find out for sure.
Samantha
