Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Serum) Concentration
This test measures the level of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, a protein produced by the liver that helps protect the lungs from damage caused by enzymes released during inflammation.
["Low levels may increase your risk of lung disease or liver problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17466-4
- Short code
- Deprecated PAI1 Ag PPP EIA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Deprecated PAI1 Ag PPP EIA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- eia
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema, or if you have a family history of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency. It may also be used to monitor liver health or diagnose conditions like cirrhosis.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have blood drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re taking blood thinners, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., grams per deciliter). Very low levels may indicate Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency, which can lead to lung or liver disease. High levels may be seen in certain liver conditions or during pregnancy.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Low levels are most commonly linked to genetic mutations causing Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency. Other conditions, like chronic liver disease or certain medications, may also affect levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic disorder that can cause progressive lung disease (e.g., emphysema) and liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis). Early diagnosis helps manage symptoms and prevent complications. Regular monitoring is important for those at risk.
Short name
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What does a low result mean?
Can diet affect this test?
Is this test painful?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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