Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT) in Serum or Plasma by Electrophoresis
This test measures the levels 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.
["Assesses protein distribution and potential lung/lung-related risks from A1AT deficiency."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40533-2
- Short code
- WBC # DiafP Manual
- Synonyms
- WBC # DiafP Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- 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
What Is Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT)?
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT) is a protein that helps prevent lung and liver damage by neutralizing enzymes released during inflammation. Low levels of A1AT can increase the risk of chronic lung diseases, such as emphysema, and liver disorders. This test helps identify whether your A1AT levels are normal or if they may be contributing to health concerns.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order an A1AT electrophoresis test if you have a family history of lung diseases like emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), liver problems, or if you have symptoms such as persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or unexplained fatigue. It may also be used to monitor treatment or assess genetic risks.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then separated into serum or plasma, and the A1AT protein is analyzed using electrophoresis, a technique that separates proteins based on size and charge. This process helps determine the distribution and concentration of A1AT variants.
What Do the Results Mean?
Electrophoresis results show the pattern of A1AT bands, which can indicate whether your levels are normal or if you have a rare variant (e.g., M, Z, or S types). Abnormal patterns may suggest a genetic predisposition to lung or liver disease, but interpretation requires clinical correlation with symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
A1AT Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
Why was this test ordered?
What does an abnormal result mean?
How often should I get 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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy