Diseases

Alpha-1 Related Emphysema (Alpha -1 Antitrypsin Defeciency)

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A pathological condition of the lungs marked by an abnormal increase in the size of the air spaces, resulting in labored breathing and an increased susceptibility to infection. It can be caused by irreversible expansion of the alveoli or by the destruction of alveolar walls. Also called pulmonary emphysema.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing or a chronic cough.

CAUSES

Cigarette smoking is by far the most dangerous behavior that causes people to develop emphysema, and it is also the most preventable cause. Other risk factorsinclude a deficiency of an enzyme called alpha-1-antitrypsin, air pollution, airway reactivity, heredity, male sex, and age.