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Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Serum) Concentration

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

This test measures the level of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, a protein produced mainly in the liver that helps protect the lungs from damage caused by enzymes released during inflammation.

Quick summary

["Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels can help identify genetic conditions affecting lung or liver health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
76622-0
Short code
LAL Fib-Imp
Synonyms
LAL Fib-Imp
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 chronic cough, shortness of breath, or liver issues, or if you have a family history of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency—a genetic condition linked to lung disease or cirrhosis.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, typically in a clinic or lab setting. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Low levels of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin may indicate a genetic deficiency, which can increase the risk of lung diseases (like emphysema) or liver problems. High levels are less commonly significant but could be due to liver disease or other conditions.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is often part of a broader evaluation for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), liver cirrhosis, or unexplained respiratory symptoms, especially if family history suggests Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormally low Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels are strongly associated with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic disorder that can lead to lung diseases (such as emphysema) or liver cirrhosis. Regular monitoring and potential enzyme replacement therapy may be recommended for affected individuals. High levels are less clinically significant but may warrant further investigation if other liver or inflammatory conditions are suspected.

Short name

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What causes low Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels?
Low levels are most commonly due to a genetic mutation (Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency). Other rare causes may include severe liver disease or certain infections.
How is Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels, genetic testing to confirm the mutation, and sometimes additional tests like lung function or liver imaging.
Can lifestyle changes affect Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels?
While lifestyle factors like smoking or chronic lung infections can worsen symptoms in people with deficiency, they do not directly alter the measured Alpha-1 Antitrypsin level in the blood. However, avoiding smoking and managing respiratory infections can slow disease progression.
  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