Alpha-1 Antitrypsin
Created By: Luisse Ratunil P1
What Is The Disorder?
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is when you have little or no alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAA) in your blood. This protein protects your lungs. AATD makes your lungs unprotected and leaves your lungs exposed to many diseases. This disease is inherited through it being passed down from your parents. Fortunately, it only occurs in every 1 in 2,500 people.
What Chromosome Is It On?
This disease occurs on SERPINA1 gene. This disorder only occurs when both genes from the offspring's parents have the disorder for AATD.
What Are The Symptoms/Diagnosis?
The symptoms of Alpha-1 deficiency can be liver diseases, shortness of breath, wheezing and more severe symptoms are repeated respiratory infections, fatigue, rapid heart rate, visual problems, and unintentional weight loss. The only way to get diagnosed for AATD is getting a blood sample of that individual tested.
What Is The Prognosis/Treatment?
Currently there is no cure for AATD and the major goal is to prevent or to slow the progress of the disease and its symptoms. Bronchodilators and antibiotics for respiratory tract infections.