Serum/plasma **Substance concentration** of **Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT)**
This test measures the amount of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, a protein produced by the liver that helps protect the lungs from damage caused by enzymes released during inflammation or injury.
["A1AT levels help assess lung health and risk for conditions like emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 63319-8
- Short code
- ENA RNP Ab CSF Ql IA
- Synonyms
- ENA RNP Ab CSF Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why is this test done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of lung problems, such as chronic coughing, shortness of breath, or recurrent lung infections. It may also be used to evaluate liver disease or monitor treatment for conditions like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic disorder that can affect both lungs and liver.
What does the test involve?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma, where the protein is measured using an immunoassay method. The result indicates the concentration of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin in your blood.
What do the results mean?
Low levels of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin may suggest a genetic deficiency, which can increase your risk of lung diseases. High levels might be seen in certain liver diseases or during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will interpret the result in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
How is this test prepared?
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods for a short time if instructed by your provider. Follow any specific instructions your healthcare team gives you before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
A1AT Level
Frequently asked questions
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic condition that can lead to lung diseases like emphysema and liver disease. Low levels of A1AT can indicate an increased risk of these conditions, especially if you have a family history of the disorder. Regular monitoring may be recommended for people with this condition to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Reference ranges can vary by lab and method. Your results will be compared to a range specific to your lab and clinical context. Low levels (below normal) may be particularly concerning for genetic testing or disease risk assessment.
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional. Home blood tests are not typically available for this specific analyte.
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