Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Serum) Activity by Bromocresol Green Electrophoresis
This test measures the activity 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 helps prevent lung and liver damage; low levels may indicate genetic disorders or chronic conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10817-5
- Short code
- Gomori-Wheatley Tri Stn Tiss
- Synonyms
- Gomori-Wheatley Tri Stn Tiss
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- trichrome-stain-gomori-wheatley
- 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 liver-related issues, especially if you have a family history of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency. It may also be used to monitor lung or liver function in patients with known genetic conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if instructed by your provider. Bring any medications or supplements you’re currently taking to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using electrophoresis with Bromocresol Green dye to measure protein activity levels.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to standard ranges to determine if your Alpha-1 Antitrypsin activity is within normal limits, low, or elevated. Abnormal results may prompt further testing or evaluation of potential genetic or health conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low levels of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin are strongly linked to Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic disorder that can cause chronic lung diseases (like emphysema) and liver disease. High levels may indicate acute inflammation or certain liver conditions. Regular monitoring is essential for those with known deficiency to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Short name
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Activity
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes 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