Login to South West London Pathology Services

If you have any queries about pathology consumables – you need a new account or you have a query about your order, please telephone 020 8266 6827. Forgotten your password

Faecal alpha 1 anti-trypsin

Category Immunology and PRU
Reporting frequency 7 working days

Additional information

Indications

Investigation of suspected protein losing enteropathy (PLE).

In protein losing enteropathy, serum proteins are lost into the gut. One way to assess this is to measure the concentration of alpha-1 antitrypsin in stool samples. Alpha-1 antitrypsin is a protease inhibitor, making it resistant to degradation by proteases in the stool sample.

Sample requirements

Random stool sample of at least 1g.

Samples should be frozen promptly and transported to our laboratory on dry ice. Alternatively a saline extract can be made, filtered, and transported to our laboratory at ambient temperature.

Method

A 1/10 saline extract is prepared of the stool sample and the filtered extract is analysed by rate nephelometry.

Reference range

0.00 – 0.48 mg/gww (grams wet weight of faeces)

Turnaround time

7 working days.

A faster turnaround time is possible for clinically urgent cases. Call the Immunology Consultants on 0208 725 5106 to arrange.

Postal address

Samples should be sent to:

Protein Reference Unit
South West London Pathology
St George’s Hospital
Blackshaw Road
Tooting
London SW17 OQT

For service or price enquiries, please contact the Immunology Manager, Aimee Rhodes, on 0208 725 1918 or email aimee.rhodes@stgeorges.nhs.uk.

For any clinical queries, please contact the Immunology Consultants on 0208 725 5106 or email r.wheeler@nhs.net.

Lab Tests Online UK

Lab Tests Online - UK is a website written by practising laboratory doctors and scientists to help you understand the many clinical laboratory tests that are used in diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease.

Click here to go to Labtestsonline.org.uk

  • Search Tests

Latest news

January 7, 2025

A day in the life… Ana Silva

What does an average day look like? For Ana Silva, no two days are alike, and she thrives in the whirlwind of responsibilities that come with her role. “Right now, it’s probably a mix of two or three different jobs,” Ana laughs. “On the one hand, I’m a senior in serology, so I’m managing the […]

Read more
December 31, 2024

A legacy of dedication: celebrating Robert Akutu’s retirement after 25 years in cellular pathology

After a distinguished career spanning 25 years, Robert Akutu is preparing to retire as General Manager of Cellular Pathology at South West London Pathology. His journey has been marked by transformative leadership, a passion for innovation, and an unwavering commitment to improving patient care. While his career may be coming to a close, his influence […]

Read more
December 24, 2024

Read our 2023/24 annual report

The South West London Pathology (SWLP) team has achieved remarkable milestones in the past year, and we are excited to share the highlights in our annual report for 2023/24. Packed with inspiring stories, key achievements, and a glimpse into our exciting future, this report is a testament to the dedication and innovation of our incredible […]

Read more
November 19, 2024

A day in the life of Simon Brewer, managing director at South West London Pathology

For Simon, no two days are alike. From back-to-back meetings to site visits, his role balances strategic planning with on-the-ground problem-solving. “I prefer being in the labs,” he says, valuing direct engagement with frontline staff to inform decisions.

Nicknamed “Captain Chaos” for his knack for shaking up the status quo, Simon thrives on driving innovation and keeping SWLP moving forward as a dynamic, people-focused service.

Read more