"Detection of hereditary decreases in the production of alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT). Decreased or nearly absent levels of AAT can be a factor in chronic obstructive lung disease and liver disease. An increased prevalence of non-MM phenotypes is found with cryptogenic cirrhosis and with CAH. Cirrhosis in a child should raise consideration of AAT deficiency or Wilson disease. Diagnosis of inflammatory states, if elevated (eg, rheumatoid arthritis, bacterial infection, vasculitis, neoplasia)."
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