Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Serum) Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount 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.
["Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels can help identify or monitor conditions affecting lung or liver health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5973-3
- Short code
- tPA Ag 10M PPP IA-mCnc
- Synonyms
- tPA Ag 10M PPP IA-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- 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 Is Done
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, or liver diseases like cirrhosis. It can also be used to check for genetic disorders linked to low Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm to draw blood. If you’re concerned about needles, let your healthcare provider know in advance.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are compared to a standard range for healthy adults. Low levels may suggest genetic disorders or conditions affecting the lungs or liver, while high levels may indicate certain liver diseases or inflammation.
Common Conditions Monitored
Low Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels are often linked to conditions like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, which can cause lung diseases like emphysema or liver diseases. High levels may be seen in conditions like chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin plays a protective role in the body’s tissues. Low levels can lead to chronic inflammation and damage, particularly in the lungs and liver, increasing the risk of serious diseases. Regular monitoring is important for those with known genetic risks.
Short name
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What causes low Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle changes affect Alpha-1 Antitrypsin levels?
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