Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration for Serine Protease Inhibitor Complex (e.g., Alpha-1 Antitrypsin)

What This Test Measures

Serine protease inhibitors, including alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT), are proteins that naturally inhibit enzymes that can break down lung tissue and other organs. This test quantifies their functional activity in your blood, which can be affected by genetic mutations, liver disease, or smoking. While the specific analyte isn’t always named in the compressed code, it aligns with common clinical tests for protease inhibitor function.

Why It Matters in Your Health

Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, which increases lung disease risk (e.g., emphysema) or liver disorders. This test is often used in screening or monitoring patients with known genetic predispositions or symptoms of organ damage.

Common Uses

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like chronic cough, shortness of breath, or liver issues. It’s also used in genetic counseling for families with a history of protease inhibitor deficiencies.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The sample is processed into serum or plasma within 2 hours of collection to preserve accuracy. Avoid fasting unless instructed, as diet may influence certain protease inhibitor levels.