Synovial Fluid Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT) Concentration
This test measures the level of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, a protein that helps protect tissues from damage caused by enzymes released during inflammation. It may be used to assess joint or soft tissue conditions affecting synovial fluid.
["This test helps evaluate inflammation or protein abnormalities in joint fluid."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95166-5
- Short code
- M synoviae Ab/Pos cntrl Ser IA
- Synonyms
- M synoviae Ab/Pos cntrl Ser 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, swelling, or stiffness that suggest conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or other inflammatory joint diseases. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions affecting connective tissues or chronic inflammation.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may be asked to rest your affected joint for a short time before the sample is collected. The procedure involves drawing synovial fluid from your joint using a needle, similar to a blood draw.
What the Test Results Mean
Abnormal levels of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin in synovial fluid can indicate ongoing inflammation or other underlying conditions affecting your joints or connective tissues. Your results will be interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Conditions Linked to This Test
Elevated levels may be associated with inflammatory joint diseases, while lower levels could suggest conditions like chronic inflammation or certain genetic disorders affecting protein production.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Alpha-1 Antitrypsin in Synovial Fluid serves as a biomarker for joint inflammation and connective tissue health. It can help differentiate between inflammatory arthritis, crystal-induced arthritis (e.g., gout), and other conditions affecting synovial fluid composition. Monitoring A1AT levels can guide treatment decisions and assess disease progression.
Short name
A1AT in Synovial Fluid
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How often will I need this test?
Can diet or lifestyle changes affect this test?
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