Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, Serum or Plasma, Electrophoresis
This test measures the level and forms of alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT), a protein made mainly by the liver that helps protect the lungs from damage. It is often used to check for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
["An alpha-1 antitrypsin test helps identify a genetic protein deficiency that can affect the lungs and liver."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 63343-8
- Short code
- ENA SS-a 60kD Ab Fld Ql IA
- Synonyms
- ENA SS-a 60kD Ab Fld Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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 Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Does
Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a protein produced mainly by the liver and released into the blood. Its main job is to protect lung tissue from enzymes that can break it down, especially during inflammation or infection.
Why the Test Is Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have early-onset or unexplained lung disease, liver problems, or a family history of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. It can also help evaluate people with certain chronic breathing or liver conditions.
What Electrophoresis Adds
Electrophoresis separates proteins in the sample based on their electrical charge. In this context it can help characterize the alpha-1 antitrypsin protein and detect unusual or deficient forms, which may be relevant for genetic variants of the protein.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
A blood sample is usually drawn from a vein in your arm. Follow any instructions from your care team about fasting or timing of the test. The blood draw is generally quick, with mild discomfort and a small risk of bruising at the site.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Alpha-1 antitrypsin testing can help detect a deficiency that may increase the risk of lung damage (such as emphysema) and liver disease. Results are interpreted alongside symptoms, family history, and other tests, and abnormal findings may lead to confirmatory genetic testing and specialist care.
Short name
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Serum/Plasma, Electrophoresis)
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
What does a low result mean?
Can this test tell me my exact genetic variant?
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