What you need to know about IgA deficiency: A case study

Purpose: To provide nurse practitioners (NPs) with an overview of the physiology, pathophysiology, associated diseases clinical implications for blood transfusions for patients with immunoglobulin A deficiency (IgAD). Data sources: A review of the scientific literature was performed on IgAD using PubMed, Medline, and CINAHL. The case study of a patient with IgAD going for cardiac surgery is used to integrate this knowledge into clinical practice. Conclusions: IgAD is being identified in asymptomatic people through screening for numerous conditions. NPs receiving results on their patients may not fully comprehend the significance of IgAD. Implications for practice: Knowledge of the underlying physiology and pathophysiology of IgAD enables the NP to obtain an accurate and comprehensive patient assessment, establish differential diagnoses, and manage issues related to potential associated conditions as well as potential blood transfusion risks.