The prevalence of liver abnormalities in individuals with ZZ Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency

Background Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a hereditary disorder defined by low plasma levels of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT). It is linked primarily with the development of lung, liver and skin disease. The most common abnormal variant of AAT is the ‘Z’ variant. It is the AATD type most associated with the development of liver disease. The aim of this project is to determine the prevalence of liver abnormalities in ZZ AATD individuals.