Skip to Content
Home > Health Information > Conditions > Alpha-1
Reviewed on 3/10By Dr. Sandhaus & Janis Berend, C-ANP
Robert Sandhaus, MD, PhD Dept. of Medicine
View full profile
Janis Berend RN, MSN, C-ANP Alpha-1 Coordinator
Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a major protein in the blood that it is produced mainly in liver cells. When you don't have enough alpha-1 antitrypsin, you might have Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, sometimes called Alpha-1. Alpha-1 can affect two major organs in the body - the lungs and the liver. The reason is because the defective protein that characterizes Alpha-1 is important to both of these vital organs.
When Alpha-1 affects the lungs, it can cause COPD and is called Alpha-1 Deficiency or inherited emphysema.
When Alpha-1 affects the liver, it is called inherited liver disease.
There may also be an association between Alpha-1 and atypical TB infections in the lung, also called Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria.
Request an Appt.Refer a PatientPatient Information
1.877.CALL NJH (877.225.5654)
eNewsletters and More
Doctors at National Jewish Health follow one of the largest groups of Alpha-1 patients in the country.
Learn more.
