What it means
One of the five classes of antibodies. IgA guards the mucous membranes of the mouth, airways, gut and genital tract, where germs first try to enter. A baby gets IgA from breast milk, especially colostrum, the first milk. IgA deficiency is a common inherited immune problem, and IgA nephropathy is a kidney disease caused by IgA deposits.
At a glance
| Also written | Immunoglobulin A |
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Related terms
immune system
The body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.
mucous membrane
The moist lining of body openings and passages, such as the mouth, nose, eyelids, gut and airways.
breast milk
The milk made by the breasts to feed a baby.