Alpha₁ Deficiency blog 

Simple Answers to Commonly Asked Questions About Alpha-1 

For many with alpha₁ antitrypsin deficiency, or Alpha-1, the journey to diagnosis often feels like a long, winding road. Finding answers isn’t always easy, but it can help to learn from the experiences of others. Here are some simple answers to questions patients often ask.

Why Family Testing Is Important in Alpha₁ Antitrypsin Deficiency

Alpha₁ antitrypsin (A₁AT) deficiency, commonly known as Alpha-1, is a progressive condition affecting the lungs. Because the physical symptoms of Alpha-1 resemble those of other serious lung diseases, it is often missed or misdiagnosed. Alpha-1 can have significant consequences, as it is often the root cause of other serious lung diseases.

What Is Alpha₁ Antitrypsin and Why Do We Need It?

If you’ve heard the term “alpha₁ antitrypsin” (or “A₁AT”), you may already know that it’s a protein that your body makes in your liver. But what does it actually do, and why do we need it?