IgA – what do your numbers mean?
Have you had your IgA level measured and are unsure what the numbers mean? Here's a clear explanation of the normal range, what high or low levels can indicate, and when it makes sense to get tested.
What is the normal range for IgA?
What is the normal range for IgA?
The normal range for IgA in the blood varies depending on age. For infants under 1 year, the value is typically below 0.29 g/L. For children and adolescents, the level gradually increases with age, and for adults between 18 and 50 years, the normal range is between 0.8-3.9 g/L. For individuals over 50 years, the range is slightly higher, namely 0.8-4.9 g/L. It is important to note that reference intervals can vary depending on the laboratory equipment and analysis methods used. Being close to the limit values can indicate an incipient imbalance in the immune system, but further investigations are required to determine the cause.
What does a low level mean?
A low level of IgA can be due to a condition known as selective IgA deficiency, which is one of the most common primary immunodeficiencies. Symptoms can include frequent respiratory infections, allergies, and autoimmune diseases. The causes can be genetic or secondary to other diseases such as chronic kidney disease or protein-losing enteropathies. Particularly vulnerable groups include individuals with a family history of immunodeficiencies. If you have a low IgA level, you should consult a doctor for further diagnosis and possibly avoid certain treatments that can trigger allergic reactions, e.g., blood transfusions.
What does a high level mean?
An elevated level of IgA can indicate chronic stimulation of the immune system. This is often seen in chronic infections, autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, or inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Alcoholic liver cirrhosis and certain kidney diseases like IgA nephropathy can also lead to elevated levels. Symptoms can vary from fatigue and fever to more specific signs depending on the underlying cause. It is recommended to seek medical advice if you have persistently elevated values, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. The doctor can perform further tests to identify the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
Get your IgA level tested
At Celto, you can order a blood test for IgA directly online – without a referral from your doctor and without long waiting times. We have over 34 sample collection sites at public hospitals throughout Denmark, and your samples are analyzed in the same accredited laboratories used by the rest of the healthcare system. You receive your results directly on sundhed.dk, just like all other blood tests from the public system.
How it works
When you order a blood test from Celto, you choose which markers you want tested – no doctor's referral needed. After your purchase, you will receive an email with a link to our booking system, where you choose a time and place. The blood test itself is taken by authorized healthcare professionals and typically takes only a few minutes.
Where you can get tested
Celto has over 34 sample collection sites at public hospitals and clinics throughout Denmark. You choose the location that suits you best among our partners, and there are typically available times within a few days. Find your nearest sample collection site →
How to get your results
Your blood samples are analyzed in the same laboratories used by your own doctor and the rest of the healthcare system – precisely the same quality and the same tests. You will receive your results directly on sundhed.dk within a few business days, and Celto will also send an easy-to-understand review of your values so you know what the numbers mean.