Bronchial Lavage Fluid Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Mass Concentration) Probe
This test measures the amount of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, a protein that helps protect your lungs from damage caused by enzymes released during inflammation.
["Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels in lung fluid can help diagnose or monitor lung diseases like emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 105216-6
- Short code
- FLUBV RNA Bronch Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- FLUBV RNA Bronch Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent cough, shortness of breath, or lung-related issues that suggest lung inflammation or damage. It’s often used in patients with known genetic Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency or those suspected of developing lung disease from chronic conditions like COPD.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely undergo a bronchoscopy, where a thin tube is inserted through your nose or mouth into your airways. A small amount of fluid will be collected from your lungs using gentle suction. This procedure is usually done under sedation and may cause mild discomfort but is generally safe.
What the Test Results Mean
Lower-than-normal Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels in your lung fluid may indicate lung damage or inflammation. Higher-than-normal levels could be due to certain medical conditions or medications. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is primarily used to diagnose or assess Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic disorder that can lead to lung and liver problems. It may also help monitor lung disease progression in patients with conditions like COPD or chronic bronchitis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin in Bronchial Lavage Fluid
Frequently asked questions
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency is linked to progressive lung diseases, such as emphysema, and liver diseases. Low levels in lung fluid can signal early lung damage, prompting early intervention to slow disease progression.
The test involves collecting fluid from your lungs during a bronchoscopy, which is generally safe but may have mild risks like temporary discomfort or infection. Follow-up care depends on your doctor’s findings and recommendations.
No special preparation is usually required, but you may need to avoid certain medications or foods for a short time before the procedure. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for the best accuracy of results.
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