What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Secretory IgA (sIgA) Add-On - Genova Test Kit, which evaluates the gastrointestinal barrier's function and identifies the underlying factors causing inflammation. sIgA plays a crucial role in the gut epithelial barrier as it helps develop immune tolerance for normal and beneficial commensal gut organisms and common molecular epitopes found in foods.
Studies in the past have mainly concentrated on the function of sIgA in blocking harmful substances and organisms from accessing the bloodstream. But, new research has shown that sIgA also has an essential role in transporting helpful bacteria and their products to the gut and systemic immune system, promoting immune tolerance. This protects these beneficial organisms from being attacked by the immune system and helps the immune system while keeping local homeostasis in a non-inflammatory way.
Patients with systemic IgA deficiency may not experience as many gastrointestinal disorders as expected, as IgM can compensate for the lack of IgA in the intestinal mucosa. However, those with genetic immunodeficiency of systemic sIgA may have diarrhea and are more vulnerable to airway infections. Adaptive sIgA responses can help promote mucosal homeostasis.
What conditions may cause abnormal sIgA levels?
Causes of elevated fecal sIgA:
- Any defective epithelial barrier
- A defective epithelial barrier allows bacterial and microbial penetration, which is the strongest stimulator of sIgA production.
- Celiac disease
- Colon cancer
- Infections
- IBS (especially the diarrhea subtype)
- Systemic IgA deficiency
- IBD
Individuals should note that this test is only offered as an add-on test for the following Genova Diagnostics test kit:
- Gastrointestinal (GI) Effects Fundamentals Stool Profile (GD2209)
Don't hesitate to contact Walk-In Lab's Customer Service at 1-800-539-6119 if you are interested in this add-on test, as additional charges will be applied.
Preparation:
Ship test kits to the lab Monday-Thursday only. No fasting is required for collection. However, before collecting a sample for fat absorption assessment, patients should consume their normal dietary fat intake. It is recommended to wait at least two weeks after completing medications such as PPIs, bismuth, antifungals, antibiotics, probiotics, and anti-parasitics. Patients should avoid taking digestive enzymes, laxatives (particularly mineral or castor oil), antacids, aspirin, and substances containing barium or bismuth for at least 48 hours before and during specimen collection. Consult with your physician before stopping any medications.
Test Results:
14 business days once lab receives kit. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
