Immune & Inflammation

Antitrypsin — Your Lungs' Protective Shield

Your immune system does a lot of good. But its defence enzymes can also cause collateral damage — especially to your lungs. That's where alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) steps in. This liver-produced protein acts as a shield, neutralising the enzymes that would otherwise chew through healthy lung tissue. When AAT levels are low — often due to genetics — your lungs are left unprotected, significantly increasing the risk of COPD, emphysema and liver damage. It's one of the most common hereditary conditions in people of European descent, and most people have no idea they carry it.

Why Test S-Antitrypsin Test?

This test is recommended if you have early or unexplained COPD (especially if you've never smoked), recurring respiratory infections, shortness of breath, unexplained liver enzyme changes, a family history of AAT deficiency, or if you're a smoker who wants to understand your hereditary lung disease risk. Knowledge is power here.

What Do High S-Antitrypsin Test Levels Mean?

Elevated AAT is usually a response to inflammation, infection, pregnancy or oestrogen therapy. As an acute-phase protein, it rises when the body is under stress. This doesn't typically indicate a problem with the protein itself.

What Do Low S-Antitrypsin Test Levels Mean?

Low levels may signal AAT deficiency, liver dysfunction or protein loss through the kidneys. If confirmed, genetic testing of the SERPINA1 gene is usually the next step to identify the specific variant and guide long-term management.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Chronic cough or shortness of breath
  • Early-onset COPD or emphysema
  • Recurring respiratory infections
  • Unexplained liver enzyme changes
  • Wheezing or reduced exercise tolerance

Who Should Get Tested?

  • Anyone with COPD or emphysema without a clear cause
  • People with liver problems or unexplained liver enzymes
  • Those with AAT deficiency in the family
  • Smokers wanting to understand hereditary lung risk
  • Anyone with chronic cough or shortness of breath

How to Prepare for Your Test

No special prep needed. Just bring valid ID on test day.

Order Your Blood Test

Test your S-Antitrypsin Test levels with an accredited Swedish laboratory. Results within days, reviewed by Wellth.

Alpha-1-Antitrypsin (S) →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency?
It's a genetic condition where the liver makes too little or dysfunctional AAT protein. Without enough of this shield, your lungs are exposed to enzymatic damage, which increases the risk of COPD, emphysema and sometimes liver disease. It's surprisingly common in people of European descent — and hugely underdiagnosed.
Should I get genetic testing if my level is low?
Yes. Genetic testing of the SERPINA1 gene identifies your specific variant and how severe the deficiency is. It also helps with family screening — your relatives may carry the same variant without knowing.
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Wellth Team

Wellth

Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.