Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
Alpha 1 antitrypsin (A1AT) is a protective protein made in the liver that helps keep your lungs healthy. In A1AT deficiency, the body doesn't produce enough of this protein or makes a defective form, putting you at risk for lung damage and liver disease over time.
He reviews your symptoms, family history of A1AT deficiency, and risk factors such as smoking and environmental exposures.
We measure your blood alpha-1 antitrypsin levels and perform genetic testing to identify A1AT gene variants.
Spirometry and other pulmonary function tests assess airflow limitation and overall lung capacity.
High-resolution imaging detects emphysema patterns, lung tissue damage, and helps guide personalized treatment planning.
Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
It's a genetic disorder. You inherit two faulty A1AT genes - one from each parent'resulting in low or dysfunctional A1AT protein.
No. A1AT deficiency affects the lungs and liver, whereas hemophilia is a clotting factor disorder impacting blood coagulation.
The condition is inherited; both parents must carry and pass on the defective A1AT gene.
Yes. Exposure to smoke, fumes, or chemical pollutants can accelerate lung damage in people with A1AT deficiency.
Diagnosis involves a blood test to measure A1AT levels and genetic testing to confirm specific gene variants.
There's no cure yet, but treatments like A1AT replacement therapy and lifestyle changes can manage symptoms and slow progression.
They're prescribed in low doses to reduce lung inflammation and help prevent exacerbations.
Yes. Infants may present early with liver issues such as jaundice, and older children may show respiratory symptoms.
Quit smoking, avoid secondhand smoke and pollutants, eat a balanced diet, and engage in light exercise to support lung and liver health.
Visit the American Lung Association's A1AT deficiency page or talk to Dr. Chadha for personalized resources.
