Your AAT level, or estimated AAT level, is the amount of alpha-1 antitrypsin protein in your blood. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is classically defined as having an AAT level lower than 57 mg/dL or 11uM; however, there are variant forms where someone’s AAT level may actually be higher, but it is not working well. AAT is an acute phase reactant protein, which means the levels tends to go up when the body has inflammation, infection, or during a pregnancy. It is normal for someone’s AAT level to vary within the range for their genetic type of AATD. In most cases, you shouldn’t need to have regular AAT level measurements taken. An AAT level alone is not enough to confirm if someone is an AATD carrier. In those situations, genetic testing is needed.
Other Questions About Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency
- Will I die from alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency?
- Who should be tested for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency?
- Who else should be tested for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency?
- Where do I find a center of excellence for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency?
- Where can I find other people with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency?
