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Serum or Plasma Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT) Concentration by Amplified Electrophoresis

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

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

Quick summary

["Alpha-1 Antitrypsin helps prevent lung disease and can be important if you have a genetic risk for lung or liver problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10037-0
Short code
S wave Amp L-I
Synonyms
S wave Amp L-I
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ekg
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 a family history of conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, or liver disease. It may also be used to monitor treatment or assess symptoms like persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or unexplained fatigue.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may fast for 8–12 hours before the test if instructed, but check with your provider. Bring any medications you’re currently taking.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing via amplified electrophoresis, a method that detects protein levels with high sensitivity.

What the Results Mean

Low levels of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin may indicate a genetic disorder that increases your risk of lung or liver disease. High levels are less commonly associated with clinical concerns but may warrant further evaluation if unexplained.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels?
Low levels are often due to a genetic mutation passed down through families. Some people may also have conditions like liver disease or chronic inflammation that temporarily reduce production.
How often should I get this test?
If you have a family history of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, your doctor may recommend testing as part of a screening program, often starting in childhood or early adulthood. Follow-up testing may be needed every few years or more frequently if symptoms develop.
Can lifestyle changes affect this test result?
While lifestyle factors like smoking, air pollution, or chronic infections can worsen lung disease linked to low Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, they do not directly alter the test result itself. However, avoiding smoking and managing other health conditions can help prevent complications.
  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