Autosomal recessive trait leading to destruction of lung tissue by neutrophil elastase and eventual emphysema; second only to cystic fibrosis as most common lethal genetic disorder among caucasians of northern european ancestry.

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (A1AD or AATD) is a genetic disorder that may result in lung disease or liver disease. Onset of lung problems is typically between 20 and 50 years of age...