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Bronchial Lavage Fluid Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT) Probe

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

This test checks for the presence of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT) in fluid collected from your airways, which may help identify lung-related conditions.

Quick summary

["A1AT levels in airway fluid can signal lung inflammation or genetic disorders affecting protein production."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105211-7
Short code
RSV RNA Bronch Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
RSV 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 issues linked to A1AT deficiency. It’s also used to monitor lung health in patients with known genetic conditions affecting A1AT.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely undergo a bronchoscopy, where a thin tube with a camera is inserted through your nose or mouth to collect fluid from your airways. The procedure is usually done under sedation, and you may experience mild discomfort afterward.

What the Test Involves

A small amount of fluid is collected from your lungs during the bronchoscopy. The sample is then analyzed to detect A1AT levels using a qualitative probe method, which identifies presence rather than precise measurements.

What the Results Mean

Results are qualitative (positive or negative) and help determine if abnormal A1AT levels are present in your airway fluid, which may indicate lung inflammation, infection, or genetic disorders like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

A1AT in Bronchial Lavage Fluid (Qualitative Probe)

Frequently asked questions

How is this test used in diagnosis or monitoring?
This qualitative probe assesses A1AT in bronchial lavage fluid to identify potential lung-related conditions. For example, elevated or absent A1AT could signal underlying genetic disorders (e.g., alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency) or chronic lung diseases like emphysema.
What does a positive or negative result indicate?
A positive result (detecting A1AT) may confirm lung involvement in conditions like A1AT deficiency or chronic inflammation. A negative result (no detectable A1AT) could suggest other causes of lung symptoms or rule out A1AT-related issues.
Can this test replace other diagnostic tests?
No, this test is a supplementary tool. It’s often used alongside other tests (like bloodwork or imaging) to refine diagnosis. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
  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