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Alpha - 1 - Antitrypsin - Serum

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  • Alpha - 1 - Antitrypsin - Serum

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About

blood sample
Sample

BLOOD

Gender
Gender

Both

users
Age group

7 years & above

The alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) serum test is used to determine if the patient has a deficiency of alpha-1 antitrypsin protein. This protein is produced by the liver and helps protect the liver and the lungs from damage and common ailments like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is a severe lung disease that makes breathing difficult. The alpha-1 antitrypsin test may also help diagnose a rare form of liver disease occurring in infants.

Usually, the deficiency of AAT can be genetic since this protein is made by specific genes in the patient’s body. Every individual inherits two copies of genes that make the AAT protein from each of their parents. If these genes undergo mutation, the body may produce less alpha-1 antitrypsin protein than it normally should, or the protein will not work as intended.

To address this deficiency and work out a treatment plan for the same, an alpha-1 antitrypsin test is undertaken. It is most suitable for individuals under 45 who don’t smoke but still face symptoms that include:

Wheezing
Shortness of breath
Rapid heartbeat on standing up
Persistent asthma that doesn’t respond to treatments
Vision problems
Chronic cough

Patients should also get tested if they have a family history of alpha-1 antitrypsin protein deficiency. For infants, there are a host of other symptoms that might warrant an alpha-1 antitrypsin test. These are:

Frequent itching
Enlarged spleen
Jaundice, with yellowing of the skin and eyes lasting for more than two weeks

The procedure of an alpha-1 antitrypsin test is similar to that of a standard blood test. The results of the alpha-1 antitrypsin test indicate the level of mutated alpha-1 antitrypsin protein genes in your body. The lower the result is than the average level, the more likely it is that a patient has two mutated genes and is deficient in the protein.

Different labs have different ranges of what is considered the average count, so the readings may differ accordingly. However, the results are usually expressed in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood or micromoles per litre (µM/L).

A doctor or physician may normally advise an alpha-1 antitrypsin test, considering the patient’s medical history and symptoms. The earlier the patient gets the test done, the faster he can be sure if he suffers from the condition.

Apollo 24|7 offers a comprehensive alpha-1 antitrypsin test to diagnose the condition early and help devise suitable treatments. 

Medically edited by Dr. Sonia Bhatt.

faqFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does the deficiency of the alpha-1 antitrypsin protein lead to?

The most common consequences of an alpha-1 antitrypsin protein deficiency are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), liver diseases, and panniculitis. These are specific to the livers and lungs since the protein specifically helps protect these tissues from damage.

Does the alpha-1 antitrypsin test pose any side effects?

The alpha-1 antitrypsin test is a standard blood test which involves drawing blood from the patient’s arm. Hence, it possesses minimal risk.

What are some ways to ensure proper care if I get diagnosed with AAT deficiency?

If the results of your alpha-1 antitrypsin test show less than usual protein levels, your doctor will help devise your treatment plan. In the meantime, here is a list of some things you can do that may keep the condition in check: If you smoke, quit smoking immediately as it is the most common reason for severe lung disease, especially among individuals with an alpha-1 antitrypsin protein deficiency. Follow a healthy diet and get regular exercise. Do not skip the dosage of medicines that your doctor provides.

Do I require a follow-up test?

An alpha-1 antitrypsin serum test is usually combined with a corresponding genotyping test that looks for genetic variants causing protein deficiency. The doctor may also ask for further tests to evaluate your lung and liver functions.

Do I require any special preparation before the test?

No special preparation is required before taking the alpha-1 antitrypsin serum test. However, you can still check with your doctor or the lab to ensure that any fasting is required before the test.

Can I get the testing done at home?

Yes, Apollo 24

Why should Apollo be your preferred healthcare partner?

  • 40 Years of legacy and credibility in the healthcare industry.
  • NABL certified multi-channel digital healthcare platform.
  • Affordable diagnostic solutions with timely and accurate test results.
  • Up to 60% discount on Doorstep Diagnostic Tests, Home Sample Collection.
  • An inventory of over 100+ laboratories, spread across the country, operating out of 120+ cities with 1200+ collection centers, serving over 1800+ pin codes.

The information mentioned above is meant for educational purposes only and should not be taken as a substitute to your Physician’s advice. It is highly recommended that the customer consults with a qualified healthcare professional to interpret test results