Department of Immunology

Notes

Evaluation of COPD, emphysema and liver disease. Alpha 1 antitrypsin levels are reduced in Acute hereditary α1-antitrypsin deficiency as seen in cases of hepatitis and progressive liver cirrhosis in childhood or in adults as severe pulmonary emphysema. If the result is below the reference range phenotyping will also be performed, which is referred to North Bristol NHS Trust. Patients with ZZ, SZ, SS, MZ or null phenotypes show increased risk of lung (emphysema) or liver disease (cirrhosis).

Sample Requirements

Adult

5ml Gold-top SST tube or 3.5ml Rust-top gel tube (Trust users only)

Paediatric

1ml Serum Sample

Turnaround Times

  • 7 days (21 days for an Alpha1 antitrypsin phenotyping)

Reference Ranges

1.1 - 2.1g/l