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Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, Serum/Plasma — Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A blood test that measures alpha-1 antitrypsin and evaluates its protein pattern to help identify variants associated with low levels or abnormal function.

Quick summary

["This test can help determine whether an abnormal alpha-1 antitrypsin level is related to a genetic variant."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
98993-9
Short code
A1AT MFr SerPl Elph
Synonyms
A1AT MFr SerPl Elph
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
7.35
Ref high
7.45
Critical range
7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
electrophoresis
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a protein made by the liver that helps protect the lungs from inflammation. This test measures the amount and pattern of the protein in blood using electrophoresis.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered when an alpha-1 antitrypsin level is unexpectedly low, when there is concern about an inherited protein variant, or when lung or liver disease may be related to alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, usually from a vein in the arm. The laboratory separates proteins in the serum or plasma by electrophoresis and evaluates the alpha-1 antitrypsin fraction.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Follow any instructions from your healthcare professional, and tell the laboratory if you are taking medicines that could affect the protein pattern, such as corticosteroids.

Reference range

NCBI: pH 7.35-7.45N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency?
It can identify an abnormal protein pattern suggestive of a variant, but genetic testing may be needed to confirm the specific inherited change.
Why might my alpha-1 antitrypsin level be low?
Low levels may result from an inherited variant, liver disease, inflammation, infection, or certain medicines. Your healthcare professional can interpret the result in context.
Is fasting required for this test?
Fasting is generally not required, although your clinician or laboratory may provide specific preparation instructions.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy