Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT) Serum Concentration
This test measures the level of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, a protein produced by the liver that helps protect the lungs and other organs from damage caused by enzymes released during inflammation.
["Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels help assess risk for lung disease or liver problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13152-4
- Short code
- Deprecated S pneum9 Ab sp2 Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Deprecated S pneum9 Ab sp2 Ser-aCnc
- Category
- coagulation
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, or cystic fibrosis, 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 a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re concerned about needles, let your healthcare provider know in advance.
What the Results Mean
Lower than normal levels of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin can indicate a genetic condition that increases your risk for lung or liver disease. Higher levels may be seen in certain liver diseases or during pregnancy.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Low levels are most commonly linked to Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic disorder. Other conditions, such as chronic liver disease or certain infections, may also affect levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Alpha-1 Antitrypsin plays a critical role in protecting lung tissue from inflammation and oxidative damage. Deficiency can lead to progressive lung diseases like emphysema or liver cirrhosis. Early detection through this test helps guide treatment and management strategies.
Short name
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal Alpha-1 Antitrypsin result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or supplements affect Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels?
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