Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Program

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Treatment Program

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (also known as Alpha-1) is a hereditary condition that can cause liver disease in infants, children, and adults. It can also lead to lung disease in adults, including about 1% of COPD cases in the U.S.

National Jewish Health in Denver, Colorado, has one of the largest Alpha-1 treatment programs in the world. Our doctors care for thousands of Alpha-1 patients each year, and the program has been devoted to the care of families with Alpha-1 since 1981. 

While we do not treat infants or children with Alpha-1 liver disease, we have a close working relationship with The Children's Hospital in Denver and will make a referral to the appropriate pediatric liver specialist.   

Alpha-1 Program Highlights

  • Personalized care for all associated conditions of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
  • Genotype and phenotype evaluations of the alpha-1 protein with the most comprehensive genetic tests for alpha-1
  • A multi-specialty approach to managing your care

Personalized Medicine and Care

Our Alpha-1 care team works with you to develop a comprehensive, personalized plan that addresses your Alpha-1 symptoms. We offer genetic and blood testing to identify mutations in the alpha-1 genes or proteins and provide guidance on how to handle this inherited condition. Our doctors help find effective therapies for your symptoms and connect you with resources to help you get the best care possible. With proper diagnosis, care and treatment, Alpha-1 patients can lead full and active lives.

A Team Focused on You

We are here to partner with you to help you manage your Alpha-1 in the most effective way possible.

Because Alpha-1 affects not only the lungs, but the skin and liver, you will work with specialists in pulmonary medicine, sleep medicine, gastrointestinal medicine (GI) and other specialties. Your care team will create a comprehensive treatment plan to manage all aspects of your health. We will consider any other medical conditions or special needs you may have, and address medical and lifestyle issues that may impact your quality of life.


Doctors

  • Patrick S. Hume

    Patrick S. Hume, MD, PhD

  • Steven E. Lommatzsch

    Steven E. Lommatzsch, MD

  • Irina Petrache

    Irina Petrache, MD

  • Robert A. Sandhaus

    Robert A. Sandhaus, MD, PhD, FCCP

Clinical Trials

Reasons to Choose National Jewish Health

  • The leading respiratory hospital in the nation and the only one devoted fully to the treatment of respiratory and related illnesses
  • Ranked #1 or #2 in Pulmonology by U.S. News & World Report for 26 consecutive years
  • Ranked in the top 5% of hospitals in the nation by HCAHPS
  • Physicians consistently recognized among the best in the nation by multiple services, including Best Doctors in America and Castle Connolly
  • Among the top 6% of organizations funded for research by the NIH, providing patients access to hundreds of active clinical trials
  • 124-year history of focus on care, research and education serving patients from around the world with lung, heart, immune and related disorders
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Nationally Recognized Expertise

National Jewish Health is recognized nationally for its expertise in Alpha-1 and related conditions.

  • Our hospital is recognized as a top respiratory hospital by U.S. News & World Report, as well as a COPD high performing hospital.
  • Our physicians have helped write the clinical care guidelines for diagnosis and care of alpha-1 patients that are used by pulmonologists throughout the nation.
  • Our Alpha-1 treatment program is one of the largest in the world.
  • Articles written by our physician-scientists and researchers are regularly published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, including many of the most influential publications such as Cell, New England Journal of Medicine, The Lancet, JAMA and Nature.
  • Our physician-scientists are often invited to present at national and international conferences where physicians gather to learn about the latest advancements in medicine. 

Benefit from the Latest Research

Our physician-scientists and researchers have long been leaders in alpha-1 research that improves patient lives. This research includes:

  • Development of diagnostic tests
  • New treatments and therapies for lung and liver symptoms
  • Studies to improve the quality of life for alpha-1 patients

Clinical Trials & Research Studies

National Jewish Health offers clinical trials and research studies for patients with alpha-1. Our research coordinators can help determine which studies may be right for you.


Clinical Trials

Make an Appointment

You may be referred by your doctor or you can make an appointment without a referral. Pediatric food allergy clinic visits are available on our main campus in Denver and at our Highlands Ranch location. Not all services may be available at all locations. Please confirm when you request an appointment.


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Treatment Locations

National Jewish Health Main Campus

1400 Jackson Street Denver, CO 80206  

Phone: 1.877.CALL NJH (877.225.5654)