Causes

Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) is a type of protein called a "protease inhibitor." It is made in the liver and it works to protect the lungs and liver.

AAT deficiency means there is not enough of this protein in the body. It is caused by a genetic defect. The condition is most common among Europeans and North Americans of European descent.

Studies show that AAT deficiency may be more common than was once thought.

Adults with severe deficiency will develop emphysema, often before age 40. Smoking can increase the risk of emphysema. Other patients can have higher levels of AAT in their blood, and therefore have a less severe condition.

Persons with this deficiency may also develop liver disease.

Symptoms

• Shortness of breath with and without exertion, and other symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Symptoms of severe liver disease ( cirrhosis)
• Unintentional weight loss
• Wheezing

Exams and Tests

A physical examination may reveal a barrel-shaped chest, wheezing, or decreased breath sounds. The following tests may also help with diagnosis:

• Alpha-1 antitrypsin blood test
• Arterial blood gases
• Chest x-ray
• CT scan of the chest
• Genetic testing
• Lung function test

Your doctor may suspect you of having this condition if you develop:

• Emphysema before age 45
• Emphysema but have never smoked or been exposed to toxins
• Emphysema and you have a family history of the condition
• Liver disease or hepatitis and no other cause can be found
• Liver disease or hepatitis and you have a family history of liver disease

Treatment

Treatment for AAT deficiency involves replacing the missing AAT protein. The protein is given through a vein each week. However, it is not yet known who may benefit from such therapy.

Quitting smoking is crucial.

Other treatments for emphysema and cirrhosis are also used.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Some people with this deficiency will not develop liver or lung disease. However, emphysema and cirrhosis can be life threatening.

Possible Complications

• Bronchiectasis
• Cirrhosis or liver failure
• Emphysema
• Liver cancer

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of AAT deficiency.

Alternative Names

AAT deficiency

References

Anthonisen N. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 88.

Kowdley KV. Inherited and metabolic hepatic disorders. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 154.

Updated: 4/15/2012

Reviewed by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.