Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a rare congenital disorder that primarily affects the lungs, leading to their gradual destruction. In Germany, more than 19,000 people are estimated to be affected by the genetic defect. The lung disease often remains undiagnosed or is confused with other diseases such as COPD. This often has fatal consequences for the patient. Education and early diagnosis are therefore needed urgently.
The new “Living with AATD” website, accessible at www.alpha1-mangel.de (German only), provides patients and medical professionals with clear and understandable information AATD. It highlights the causes, symptoms and diagnostic options of the disease, provides information on risk factors and how patients can be specifically treated with alpha-1 antitrypsin, for example through self-treatment at home. In the “Advice and Help” section, affected patients can download and order service materials that make living with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency easier.
In the secure area of the website, healthcare professionals can learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of the disease, what the national COPD guideline recommends, and get more information about the benefits of treatment with purified human alpha-1 antitrypsin for intravenous administration.
“AATD” diagnosis
New German website “Living with AATD” provides information about alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and gives treatment options.
