Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) augmentation therapy in individuals with the PI*MZ genotype: A pro/con debate on a working hypothesis

Alpha-1 antitrypsin defciency (AATD) is a signifcantly under-diagnosed genetic condition caused by reduced levels and/or functionality of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT), predisposing individuals to lung, liver or other systemic diseases. The management of individuals with the PI*MZ genotype, characterized by mild or moderate AAT defciency, is less clear than of those with the most common severe defciency genotype (PI*ZZ).