Selective IgA deficiency is associated with an increased risk of which type of conditions?

Selective IgA deficiency is primarily associated with an increased risk of autoimmune diseases. Individuals with this condition often have an impaired ability to produce immunoglobulin A (IgA), which plays a crucial role in mucosal immunity, leaving them vulnerable to dysregulation of the immune system. This dysregulation can sometimes lead to a higher incidence of autoimmune disorders, where the body’s immune system erroneously attacks its own tissues.

In autoimmune diseases, the immune system's response becomes inappropriately activated or misdirected, leading to damage to the body's own cells and tissues. People with selective IgA deficiency may experience a variety of autoimmune manifestations and are at a higher risk for conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis, among others.

While individuals with selective IgA deficiency may also be more susceptible to infections due to the lack of mucosal immunity conferred by IgA, the emphasis in this context is on the link to autoimmune diseases, making it a significant aspect of the condition.