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Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Protein Phenotype Panel, Serum/Plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This blood test identifies the forms of alpha-1 antitrypsin protein in your blood and helps evaluate inherited alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

Quick summary

["The test helps determine whether you have an inherited alpha-1 antitrypsin variant that could affect lung or liver health."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
102082-5
Short code
A1AT Proteotype panel SerPl
Synonyms
A1AT Proteotype panel SerPl
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 that helps protect the lungs from inflammation. This test identifies the different forms, or phenotypes, of the protein present in your blood.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered if you have low alpha-1 antitrypsin levels, unexplained chronic lung disease, unexplained liver disease, or a family history of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. It can also help assess the risk to relatives.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory analyzes the alpha-1 antitrypsin protein pattern to determine your phenotype. If the result is unclear or suggests a rare variant, the laboratory may recommend additional testing.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually needed. Tell your healthcare professional if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking medicines that increase bleeding risk, and follow any instructions provided by the laboratory.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An abnormal phenotype may indicate an inherited alpha-1 antitrypsin variant associated with reduced protective protein levels. Such variants can increase the risk of emphysema and certain liver conditions, particularly when a person also has environmental liver injury. A phenotype result should be interpreted with alpha-1 antitrypsin level measurements, other laboratory results, and your medical history.

Short name

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Phenotype Panel

Frequently asked questions

Does this test measure how much alpha-1 antitrypsin is present?
This panel primarily identifies the forms of alpha-1 antitrypsin protein. Your healthcare professional may also order a separate alpha-1 antitrypsin concentration test.
Is alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency inherited?
Yes. It is usually inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning a person may inherit an altered gene from each parent. Carriers generally have one altered copy and typically do not have the same health risks as those with two altered copies.
Do I need genetic testing to confirm the result?
Sometimes. The phenotype panel can identify many common variants, but additional genetic testing may be needed if the result is unclear, a rare variant is suspected, or family testing is requested.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy