ALPHA-1-ANTITRYPSIN

CLINICAL UTILITY:

Alpha-1-antitrypsin, the major serum protein found in the Alpha-1 region of protein electrophoresis, is synthesized by the liver and is responsible for most of the protease-inhibiting capacity of serum. Measurement of Alpha-1-antitrypsin (A1AT) is indicated primarily in the diagnosis of severe congenital deficiency. Hereditary deficiencies of A1AT can cause severe hepatic cirrhosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults, and neonatal hepatitis and childhood hepatic cirrhosis. Decreased levels also are found in infants with idiopathic hyaline membrane disease.

Since A1AT also is an acute phase reactant, levels of the protein increase rapidly in response to inflammation, infection and tissue damage. Higher serum levels of estrogen and androgens also cause increased in A1AT. Thus, above normal levels occur in women during pregnancy or while using oral contraceptives.

METHOD DESCRIPTION:

Single radial immunodiffusion (RID) is the method used to assay Alpha-1-antitrypsin concentrations in this lab.

REFERENCE RANGE:

145-280 mg/dl

SPECIMEN REQUIREMENTS:

0.3 ml serum. Freeze.