QuestionHi,
I was recently diagnosed with pernicious anemia. I had a couple of diagnostic tests that are confusing. Is Low Iga directly related to my pernicious anemia or is it a marker for something else.Level .56 g/l. I also showed a high RF factor but I have never had any symptoms of sore joints, stiffness or swelling in any joints. What is the signifigance of this. I have no primary care physician, as we have a shortage here. I have to use walk in clinics. Thanks for your time and expertise
AnswerHi Donna,
A low IgA may need further investigation - it can be a sign of several disorders, including autoimmune problems, kidney disease and some intestinal disorders.
It is possible that the low IgA and the high RF (Rheumatoid factor) are related, although I cannot of course say this for certain in your specific case.
A low IgA (Immonoglobulin A - a type of antibody that is present in mucosal membranes - nose, mouth, etc.) is sometimes found in people naturally - they are born that way (approximately 1 in 400 births). This has been shown to increase the risk of autoimmune disorders, which would then lead (in some cases) to an increased RF test. RF can be high for a number of reasons - not only in cases of arthritis. Autoimmune disorders include things such as multiple sclerosis, lupus and leukemia, amongst others.
A high RF can perhaps be tied to the pernicious anemia which is believed to be an autoimmune disorder. So, to summarise - if (and this is an 'if') you were born with low IgA, you would have been more likely to develop an autoimmune disorder such as pernicious anaemia, hence the high RF test.
As I said above, I cannot say this with any certainty - I can only work with the information you have given me.
I hope this has been helpful. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact me again.
Best wishes,
Sam
