[brandy]

IgA is zero - how is that possible?

by brandy on Thu Nov 20, 2014 12:28 pm

Four months after my auto stem cell transplant, my IgA Is 0. Yes, zero. My multiple myeloma is IgG and it is in the normal range, and my m-spike is now 0.16 g/dL.

What happened to the IgA?

[Multibilly]

Re: IgA is zero - how is that possible?

by Multibilly on Thu Nov 20, 2014 1:41 pm

I wonder if you've developed Selective IgA Deficiency post transplant?

http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Hypogammaglobulinaemia.htm

Or, maybe in some situations, this can temporarily happen as a matter of course as your immune system continues to rebuild itself?

Obviously, your doctor needs to comment on this as I am just guessing as a total layman that has never read up on this condition.

[Connie Mancuso]

Re: IgA is zero - how is that possible?

by Connie Mancuso on Sat Nov 22, 2014 11:52 am

I had the same results as you after my autologous stem cell transplant in February 2014. My oncologist, who I adore and think is the best, stated "this happens sometimes". I am thrilled! Will enjoy this good news and go on living life to the fullest.

Connie

[Dr. Edward Libby]

Re: IgA is zero - how is that possible?

by Dr. Edward Libby on Sat Nov 22, 2014 1:48 pm

Hello from sunny (not) Seattle,

In general, serum immunoglobulin levels do not fall after autologous transplant. I wonder what the IgA was before the transplant? Hopefully the levels will recover in the next few months.

I performed a brief literature search and find no evidence that low IgA levels are routinely seen post autologous stem cell transplantation or chemotherapy. I think it is OK to simply observe this.

Interesting question – thank you !

[brandy]

Re: IgA is zero - how is that possible?

by brandy on Sat Nov 22, 2014 2:55 pm

Before transplant all the ig's were in the normal range. A puzzle for me. For Connie, did your IgA return to normal?