Alpha-1 Proteinase Inhibitor Deficiency - Good afternoon, all! Newbie here...newly diagnosed, 37?

I'm not sure what your question is exactly so I'll give you some general information. If you need more information please add your question as a comment and I'll try to help.

Prolastin (alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor) is a protein, also called alpha 1-antitrypsin. This protein occurs naturally in the body and is important for preventing the breakdown of tissues in the lungs. In people who lack the alpha 1-antitrypsin protein, breakdown of lung tissues can lead to emphysema (damage to the air sacs in the lungs).

Alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor is used to treat alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency in people who have symptoms of emphysema.

Alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic (inherited) disorder and alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor will not cure this condition.

http://www.drugs.com/mtm/prolastin.html

Please see the link below as well. Has general information about emphysema and a link to alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

http://www.drugs.com/enc/emphysema.html