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: Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, Serum, Electrophoresis

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

: This test measures the amount and form of alpha-1 antitrypsin in a blood (serum) sample using a technique called electrophoresis.

Quick summary

[": Your doctor may order this to check whether your liver or lungs are being affected by an abnormal or low level of alpha-1 antitrypsin."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59014-1
Short code
ENA SS-a 60kD Ab Ser Ql IB
Synonyms
ENA SS-a 60kD Ab Ser Ql IB
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ib
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 Is Alpha-1 Antitrypsin?

: Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a protein made mainly by the liver. It travels in the blood and helps protect tissues, especially the lungs, from damage by enzymes released by the immune system. Some people inherit forms of this protein that are low or that do not work properly.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is allowed to clot and then spun so the serum can be separated. No special preparation is usually needed, but follow any instructions your care team gives you.

: How the Test Works

: Electrophoresis separates proteins in the serum based on their electrical charge and size. This helps show the pattern of alpha-1 antitrypsin in your sample. When combined with other measurements, it can help identify an inherited form (variant) of the protein.

: What the Results Mean

: Results are compared with a range provided by the testing laboratory. Because results depend on the method and the lab, the exact normal limits should always come from your own report. Your doctor will interpret the result along with your symptoms, other lab tests, and family history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

: This test is most useful when your doctor suspects an inherited alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, which can affect lung and liver health. It is used together with other measurements and your clinical history, so it should not be interpreted on its own.

Short name

: Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Serum, Electrophoresis)

Frequently asked questions

: Do I need to fast before this test?
: Fasting is usually not required, but follow the instructions from your ordering provider, as some tests done at the same time may need fasting.
: Can this test diagnose a liver or lung condition by itself?
: No. It is one piece of information, and your doctor will consider it together with your symptoms, physical exam, and other tests.
: Should family members be tested?
: If your result suggests an inherited form of the protein, your provider may recommend that close relatives also be tested and counseled.
  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