Use Detect hereditary decreases in the production of alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT). Decreased or nearly absent levels of AAT can be a factor in chronic obstructive lung disease and liver disease. An increased prevalence of non-MM phenotypes is found with cryptogenic cirrhosis and with CAH. Cirrhosis in a child should raise consideration of AAT deficiency or Wilson's disease. It is also used to diagnose inflammatory states, if elevated (eg, rheumatoid arthritis, bacterial infection, vasculitis, neoplasia).
