Test Directory

Useful in the detection of hereditary diseases in the production of alpha-1-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 chronic active hepatitis (CAH). Cirrhosis in a child should raise consideration of AAT deficiency or Wilson’s disease. Diagnosis of inflammatory states, if elevated, e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, bacterial infection, vasculitis, and neoplasia.

Preferred Specimen Type: Serum

Desired Specimen Volume: 2 mL

Preferred Collection Container: Gold Top, Serum Separator

Separator tubes: Contains clot activator and gel for separating serum from cells, but not anticoagulant. Separate serum from cells as soon as the clot has formed (30 minutes). If specimen is centrifuged before clotting is complete, a fibrin clot will form on top of the cell. This may cause the gel barrier to not be intact and could cause improper separation of serum and cells, possibly affecting test results.

92-200 mg/dL