Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Genetic Testing

Why Would I Not Be Tested?

You may decide not to be tested because:

  • You do not have symptoms of lung disease.
  • No one in your family has AAT deficiency or lung or liver disease.
  • You would be worried if you knew that you might get lung or liver disease some day.
  • You do not smoke and you already are taking good care of yourself. You think there is nothing more you could do to prevent or delay the disease.
  • The test cannot predict whether you will ever have symptoms of this condition.
  • You do not have insurance or your insurance would not pay for the test.
  • You are worried that the test results might cause problems for you at work or make it hard for you to get health insurance.

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Author: Maria G. Essig, MS, ELSLast Updated: May 8, 2008
Medical Review: Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Ken Y. Yoneda, MD - Pulmonology

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Topic Contents
 What Is Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency?
 What Is AAT Deficiency Testing?
 Is Testing Accurate?
 Should I Be Tested?
Arrow PointerWhy Would I Not Be Tested?
 What Is Genetic Counseling?
 Other Places To Get Help
 References
 Credits