Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) Test – Comprehensive Information from MedEx Neo Clinic

Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) is an important protein produced mainly by the liver that protects body tissues, especially the lungs, from damage caused by enzymes such as neutrophil elastase. This enzyme is released during inflammation and, if unchecked due to low AAT levels, can degrade the elastic fibres in lung tissue, leading to respiratory complications. At MedEx Neo Clinic, we emphasise the crucial role of AAT in maintaining lung and liver health.

Why Alpha-1 Antitrypsin is Important

• Protecting Lung Tissue: AAT acts as a natural inhibitor of neutrophil elastase, preventing excessive breakdown of lung tissue. A deficiency in AAT significantly raises the risk of lung diseases like emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). At MedEx Neo Clinic, patients with unexplained lung symptoms are carefully evaluated for AAT deficiency to ensure early intervention.
• Liver Health: Abnormal AAT protein can accumulate in the liver, causing damage that may lead to cirrhosis or liver failure. The expert team at MedEx Neo Clinic monitors liver function closely in patients with suspected or confirmed AAT deficiency.

When to Consider AAT Testing at MedEx Neo Clinic

The Alpha-1 Antitrypsin test is recommended for patients presenting with:

• Genetic Concerns: To diagnose Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD), a hereditary condition resulting in low or dysfunctional AAT protein.
• Respiratory Symptoms: Chronic cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath in non-smokers or young individuals.
• Liver Abnormalities: Unexplained jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, or liver enlargement.
• Family Screening: To identify carriers or affected relatives of patients diagnosed with AAT deficiency.

Symptoms Indicative of AAT Deficiency

• Lung symptoms like early-onset emphysema or COPD, chronic bronchitis, and recurrent respiratory infections.
• Liver symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, abdominal swelling, and signs of cirrhosis.
• Occasionally, skin issues like panniculitis may also prompt testing.

Test Result Interpretation at MedEx Neo Clinic

• Normal Levels: Suggest sufficient AAT protection.
• Low Levels: Indicate possible deficiency; genetic testing at MedEx Neo Clinic helps identify specific variants:
• MM: Normal genotype.
• MZ: Carrier status with mildly reduced levels.
• ZZ: Severe deficiency, requiring close monitoring and management.

Possible Complications of Untreated AAT Deficiency

• Progressive lung damage leading to emphysema and rapid COPD progression.
• Liver complications, including cirrhosis and increased cancer risk.

Management of AAT Deficiency at MedEx Neo Clinic

Our multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs:

• Lung Care: Includes lifestyle advice such as smoking cessation, environmental avoidance, and, for severe cases, augmentation therapy with AAT protein infusions. We also offer pulmonary rehabilitation and medications.
• Liver Care: Routine liver function monitoring, counselling on avoiding hepatotoxic substances, and evaluation for liver transplantation when necessary.

At MedEx Neo Clinic, we are committed to early detection and personalised treatment for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.