AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The majority of patients with selective IgA deficiency undergoing transfusion of blood products are asymptomatic. However, in the subset of patients in whom anti-IgA antibodies are formed, anaphylactic reaction to blood products may occur.

Detailed explanation-2: -Having an IgA deficiency means that you have low levels of or no IgA in your blood. IgA is found in mucous membranes, mainly in the respiratory and digestive tracts. It is also found saliva, tears, and breastmilk. A deficiency seems to play a part in asthma and allergies.

Detailed explanation-3: -Severe anaphylactic or allergic reactions may occur during blood transfusion to patients who are IgA-deficient and have anti-IgA in their blood, particularly those with class-specific antibodies.

Detailed explanation-4: -From a transfusion medicine perspective, the presence of anti-IgA in an IgA deficient recipient is a possible cause of anaphylactic transfusion reactions. Approximately 1 to 5% of anaphylactic transfusion reactions in a Caucasian population may be associated with anti-IgA in IgA deficient recipients.

Detailed explanation-5: -Acute Transfusion Reactions Mild allergic: Attributed to hypersensitivity to a foreign protein in the donor product. Anaphylactic: Similar to a mild allergic reaction, however resulting in a more severe reaction.