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Nasal Lavage Fluid Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the level of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, a protein that helps protect your lungs and liver from damage. It may be used to assess lung function or inflammation in certain conditions.

Quick summary

["Alpha-1 Antitrypsin helps defend your lungs and liver; low levels may indicate lung disease or genetic risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
101937-1
Short code
CANDPCR
Synonyms
Can albi+glab+trop+para DNA Spec Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile serum separator tube (SST) or sterile plastic blood collection tube without anticoagulant; alternatively, a sterile plasma preparation tube (PPT) may be used per laboratory protocol
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
CPT
87481
SNOMED
122450003
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of serum (minimum 0.5 mL); collect in appropriate blood collection tube and allow to clot before centrifugation
Stability
Serum is stable for up to 24 hours at room temperature (20-25°C), up to 7 days at refrigerated temperature (2-8°C), and up to 4 weeks at frozen temperature (-20°C or lower). Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. For prolonged storage, -70°C is recommended.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–48 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like chronic cough, shortness of breath, or if you have a family history of conditions like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for lung diseases or inflammatory conditions.

What to Expect During the Test

A sample of fluid from your nasal passages is collected using gentle suction. This is a quick, painless procedure with no downtime. The sample is then sent to the lab for analysis.

Sample Collection and Preparation

No special preparation is needed. You may rinse your nose with saline if needed to clear mucus before the test. Avoid nasal decongestants or strong fragrances on the day of the test to ensure accurate results.

What the Results Mean

Results show the concentration of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin in your nasal fluid. While reference ranges vary by lab, lower than expected levels may suggest a genetic condition or lung inflammation. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Reference range

Negative (Not Detected). Results are reported qualitatively as Detected or Not Detected for each Candida species targeted. A positive result indicates the presence of fungal DNA consistent with candidemia or invasive candidiasis.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation is required prior to specimen collection. Specimen should ideally be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when clinically feasible, as antifungal agents may reduce fungal DNA load and yield false-negative results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin in Nasal Lavage Fluid

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your medical condition. If you have alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, your provider may recommend regular monitoring. Otherwise, this test may be one-time or part of periodic evaluations for lung health.
What are the possible risks or side effects?
There are generally no risks, but you might experience mild discomfort or a slight tickle in your nose during the procedure. Rarely, there may be a small amount of bleeding or irritation.
Can I eat or drink before the test?
You can eat and drink normally before the test, as no special preparation is required. However, avoid nasal decongestants or strong scents that day to avoid affecting the sample.
  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