Alpha-1 antitrypsin blood test

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Blood Test

Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) is a protein produced by the liver that helps protect the lungs from damage caused by certain enzymes. It can be measured by a blood test, which allows doctors to screen for certain inherited conditions and monitor progression of diseases.

The AAT test is used to help diagnose a range of conditions such as Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, an inherited condition that increases the risk of developing certain types of lung diseases and liver diseases. It is also used to screen for lung cancer and other diseases that cause inflammation and scarring in the lungs such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Preparation

No preparation is typically needed for an AAT blood test. However, fasting may be necessary prior to certain testing procedures.

Procedure

The AAT blood test is usually performed in a doctor’s office or hospital laboratory. The entire procedure usually takes about 15-30 minutes and involves the following steps:

• The medical professional will draw a sample of blood from the patient.
• The sample is sent to a laboratory for testing.
• The lab will measure the amount of AAT in the blood sample and the results are typically available within a few days.

Types

There are two types of AAT blood tests.

• Serum AAT: These tests measure the amount of AAT and other related proteins in the blood.
• Liver Function Tests: These tests measure how well the liver is functioning and can be used to detect certain inherited conditions.

Risks

The risk of complications from an AAT test is very small. The most common risks include bruising, discomfort, and potentially an infection at the site of the blood draw.

Why It's Done

The purpose of the AAT blood test is to help diagnose certain inherited conditions and to detect lung or liver diseases. It can also be used to monitor the progression of an existing condition.

When It's Done

The AAT blood test is typically ordered when a patient has symptoms or a family history of a condition that is associated with AAT deficiency or dysfunction such as Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, COPD, or liver disease. It may also be used to monitor the progression of an existing condition.