Alfa α1-Antitrypsin

Detection of hereditary decreases in the production of α₁-antitrypsin (α₁AT). Decreased or nearly absent levels of α₁AT can be a factor in chronic obstructive lung disease and liver disease. An increased prevalence of non-MM phenotypes is found with cryptogenic cirrhosis and with CAH. Cirrhosis in a child should raise consideration of α₁AT deficiency or Wilson’s disease. Diagnosis of inflammatory states, if elevated (eg, rheumatoid arthritis, bacterial infection, vasculitis, neoplasia).