Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Serum) Concentration
This test measures the 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.
["A1AT levels help assess risk for lung diseases like emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73122-4
- Short code
- Terazosin ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Terazosin ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 lung diseases, symptoms like persistent coughing or shortness of breath, or if you’ve been diagnosed with conditions like cirrhosis or pancreatitis. It can also be used to monitor treatment progress in certain cases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your lab requires it. Bring your test list or recent medical records if you’ve had this test before.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate the serum (liquid part) for testing. The lab uses an immunoassay method to measure the precise amount of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin protein in your serum.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general reference range for healthy adults. Low levels may indicate a genetic disorder (like Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency), while high levels could be due to liver disease or other conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels are strongly linked to Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, a genetic condition that increases the risk of lung diseases and liver problems. Regular monitoring is important for those with this condition to prevent complications. High levels may suggest conditions like cirrhosis or certain inflammatory diseases, though further testing would be needed to confirm.
Short name
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT)
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
What are the possible side effects of the blood draw?
Can I eat or drink before 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