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Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Concentration, Fluid — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of alpha-1 antitrypsin, a protective protein, in a body-fluid sample.

Quick summary

["This test measures alpha-1 antitrypsin in a fluid sample to help evaluate inflammation or protein-related conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29146-8
Short code
A1AT Fld-mCnc
Synonyms
A1AT Fld-mCnc
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 this test?

Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a protein made by the liver that helps control inflammation and protects tissues from damaging enzymes. This test measures its concentration in a body fluid other than blood.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when evaluating unexplained inflammation, fluid accumulation, or symptoms involving joints or other body sites. The result may be interpreted along with other findings to identify the cause of the problem.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory analyzes the fluid collected by your clinician using a validated method for measuring alpha-1 antitrypsin. The result is reported as a mass concentration, or amount of the protein per unit volume of fluid.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the type of fluid being tested and the collection method used by your clinician. Follow your clinician's instructions and tell the laboratory about any medicines, recent procedures, or possible infection that could affect the sample.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, Fluid

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same test as blood alpha-1 antitrypsin testing?
No. This test measures alpha-1 antitrypsin in a specified body-fluid sample rather than in blood. Blood testing may be used separately to evaluate inherited alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
Does the test require a blood draw?
Not necessarily. The specimen is the body fluid identified in your test order, and collection may involve a needle into the affected area or another clinical procedure.
Can I use this result to diagnose a specific condition?
Usually not by itself. Your clinician will consider the result with the fluid type, symptoms, medical history, and other laboratory tests.
  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