Can the liver be safe in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 58-year-old female. I was diagnosed with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency after doing routine bloodwork. It showed elevated liver enzymes. I do not have any lung symptoms, and I have never smoked. But my doctor is concerned about my liver. I read that AATD mostly affects the lungs. Why is it causing liver problems in my case? Should I need regular liver scans or a biopsy to check for cirrhosis? Also, is there anything I can do to protect my liver, like diet or specific medications?

Please suggest.

Answer 1

1. Hello,
  
  Welcome to icliniq.com.
  
  The cause is alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) and liver involvement. AATD is a genetic disorder that affects the production of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT), a protein that protects the lungs and liver from damage. While AATD is often associated with lung disease, it can also cause liver damage and disease, particularly in individuals who have never smoked.
  
  Why Liver Involvement?
  
  The liver produces AAT, and in individuals with AATD, the abnormal AAT protein can accumulate in liver cells, leading to damage and disease. This can cause elevated liver enzymes, as seen in your bloodwork.
  
  Monitoring and testing
  
  To monitor your liver health, your doctor may recommend:
  1. Regular liver function tests (LFTs): To monitor liver enzyme levels and detect any changes.
  2. Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT (computed tomography), or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans must be performed to evaluate liver structure and detect any signs of cirrhosis or liver damage.
  3. Liver biopsy: In some cases, a liver biopsy may be necessary to assess liver damage and determine the extent of liver involvement.Protecting your liverTo protect your liver, consider the following:
    1. Healthy diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources.
    2. Avoid toxins: Limit exposure to toxins, such as alcohol, tobacco, and certain chemicals.
    3. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can increase the risk of liver disease.
    4. Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help maintain liver health.
  Medications: Certain medications, such as carbamazepine, may be used to manage AATD-related liver disease. However, this should be discussed with your doctor.I hope this helps.Thank you and take care.