This test determines the amount of ALFA-1 antitrypsin (AAT) in the blood.AAT is a protein made in the liver. It helps protect your bottom region from damage and diseases such as lower area and encephaloma.
AAT is executed by specific genes in the body. Genes are considered the most important units passed down by the protector. It has information that determines original properties, such as length and eye color. Everyone inherits two copies of the gene consisting of the AAT, one of his own founder, and one of the mother. If a mutation (change) occurs in one or both copies of the gene, your body will function less ATT or not so well.
- If you have two mutated copies of the gene, it means you have a condition called AAT deficiency. People with this condition are at a higher risk of developing non-serious illness or liver damage before the age of 45.
- If there is a single mutated AAT gene, there is no sign of serious disease, although the AAT count is lower than normal; people with one mutated gene are considered to have eaten deficiency. This means there is no condition, but the mutated gene can be passed on to one’s children.
The AAT test helps indicate whether a genetic mutation is present so as to put a person at risk for disease.
Other names: A1AT, AAT, ALPHA-1 antiprotease deficiency, alpha1 antitrypsin.
What is it used for?
The ATT test is typically used to diagnose AAT deficiency in people who are younger (under 45 years of age), develop non-serious disease, and have no risk factors such as smoking.
The test can also be used to diagnose the rarest forms of liver disease in children.
Why is the AAT test needed?
The AAT test may be necessary if you are under 45 years of age. not smoking and have signs of nonvigorous liver disease.
- Creaky breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic cough
- Faster than normal heart rate when awake
- Vision
- Asthma that does not respond well to treatment
If you have a family situation of AAT deficiency, you may be eligible for this test.
AAT deficiency in children often affects the liver. This is why your child needs an AAT test if you find symptoms of liver disease. These include
- Yellow und, turning yellow from the skin and eyes that lasts longer than 1 or 2 weeks
- Enlargement of the spleen.
- Normal itching
What happens during the AAT test?
The caregiver takes blood from a vein in your arm with a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood is collected in a test tube or vial. You will feel some pressure as the needle goes in and out. This usually takes less than 5 minutes.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
No special preparation for the AAT test is required.
Are there any risks associated with the test?
There are no sufficient risks associated with blood testing. There will be slight pain and bruising in the area where the needle is inserted, but most signs disappear quickly.
What do the results mean?
If the results show a lower than normal ATT number, this probably means that there are one or two mutated AAT genes. The lower the number, the more likely it is that there are two mutated genes and AAT deficiency.
If you have been diagnosed with ATE deficiency, there are steps you can take to lower your risk of disease. These include
- Do not smoke. If you smoke, stop smoking. If you do not smoke, do not start. Smoking is considered an important risk point for life-threatening non-serious diseases in people with AAT deficiency.
- Follow a healthy diet
- Move regularly
- See caregiver regularly
- Take medications as agreed upon with your health care provider
Talk to your own health care provider if you have questions about your results
Is there anything else I should know about the AAT test?
It helps to speak with a genetic consultant before agreeing to the test. A genetic consultant is considered a professional trained in genetics and genetic testing. The counselor can help you understand the risks and benefits of testing. If you are tested, the counselor can help you understand the results and provide you with information about the condition, including the risks of passing the disease on to your child.
Provided by MedlinePlus, the state medical library.
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