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Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, Stool — Mass Concentration

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

Measures alpha-1 antitrypsin in stool to help evaluate for abnormal intestinal protein loss.

Quick summary

["This stool test can help identify protein loss through the intestines, which may occur with several digestive disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9407-8
Short code
A1AT Stl-mCnc
Synonyms
A1AT Stl-mCnc
Category
liver
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures the concentration of alpha-1 antitrypsin, a protein, in your stool. Alpha-1 antitrypsin is normally present in the digestive tract, but it may be lost in larger amounts when the intestinal lining is damaged or inflamed.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used to investigate unexplained protein loss, swelling, or symptoms of intestinal disease. It is sometimes used to help evaluate conditions that cause the intestine to leak protein into the stool.

How is the test performed?

You provide a stool sample, and the laboratory measures the amount of alpha-1 antitrypsin in it. The test is generally performed on a fresh sample, although your clinician may request a timed collection if a 24-hour measurement is needed.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required. Collect the stool in the clean container provided and follow the laboratory's collection instructions. Tell the laboratory if the sample is contaminated with urine or blood or if you have active diarrhea or intestinal bleeding, as these factors may affect interpretation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Stool alpha-1 antitrypsin

Frequently asked questions

Does an abnormal result mean I have one specific condition?
No. An abnormal result can suggest intestinal protein loss, but your clinician must interpret it alongside your symptoms, examination, and other tests to determine the cause.
Can diarrhea or blood in the stool affect the result?
Yes. Diarrhea and blood in the stool can affect the measurement, so the laboratory should be told about these conditions when the sample is collected.
Is this the same as an alpha-1 antitrypsin blood test?
No. This test measures alpha-1 antitrypsin in stool to evaluate intestinal protein loss, while a blood test measures the protein in the bloodstream and may also assess inherited alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
  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