Lack of association between IgA deficiency and respiratory atopy in young male adults.

BACKGROUND: The issue of atopy and increased serum IgE in IgA deficiency is still a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of IgA deficiency and its relationship with respiratory atopy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study on 4700 consecutive young males (age range 18-23), who underwent a health screen for admission to the Italian Airforce Academy between 1993 and 1995 was conducted. Serum IgA was measured by immunoturbidimetry and total and specific IgE by fluorescent enzyme immunoassay (Phadiatop FEIA, Pharmacia Cap System). Airway responsiveness was assessed by methacholine challenge.

RESULTS: IgA deficiency was detected in 0.34% (16/4700) subjects and atopy was detected in 8.6% (406/4700). The mean IgA was 243 mg/dl (95% CI 107, 442) in the 406 atopic subjects and 238 mg/dl (95% CI 100, 441) in 1544 controls. Only 6 (37.5%) of the IgA deficient subjects had subnormal IgE levels and 6 were positive in the fluorescent EIA. None of the IgA deficient patients presented with respiratory hyper-reactivity.

CONCLUSION: Atopy is not more prevalent in young male adult IgA deficient subjects, who rather display a high frequency of recurrent sinusitis.