Panniculitis is a rare inflammatory condition that affects the subcutaneous fat layer beneath the skin, causing painful nodules and swelling. It is caused by Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency, an enzyme deficiency that leads to uncontrolled inflammation in fatty tissues. The Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Quantitative test is the most important test for diagnosis because it identifies the underlying enzyme deficiency.
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Panniculitis is caused by Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic condition where your body does not produce enough of the protective enzyme that controls inflammation. When Alpha-1-Antitrypsin levels are too low, inflammatory enzymes attack the subcutaneous fat layer beneath your skin, creating painful nodules and swelling. Other triggers can include autoimmune diseases, infections, medications, and physical trauma to fatty tissue, but enzyme deficiency is the primary underlying cause.
The Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Quantitative test is the most important test for panniculitis because it measures the protective enzyme that prevents inflammation in your fatty tissue. Low levels of Alpha-1-Antitrypsin directly contribute to the inflammatory damage that causes panniculitis nodules. This blood test identifies whether enzyme deficiency is the root cause of your symptoms, which is essential for determining the right treatment approach. While panniculitis is primarily diagnosed through physical examination and sometimes tissue biopsy, the Alpha-1-Antitrypsin test reveals the underlying biochemical problem driving the inflammation.
You should get tested if you develop painful, tender lumps or nodules under your skin, especially on your legs, thighs, or buttocks. Get tested if these nodules are accompanied by redness, warmth, or skin discoloration that does not improve with time. You should also consider testing if you have a family history of Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency or if you have unexplained inflammation in your fatty tissue along with other symptoms like fever or fatigue. Early testing helps identify enzyme deficiencies before they cause more extensive tissue damage.
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What this means
Your testosterone levels are slightly below the optimal range. While this is not necessarily cause for concern, it may contribute to occasional fatigue, reduced motivation, or lower muscle mass over time.
Recommended actions
Increase resistance or strength training
Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night, try to reduce stress
Include more zinc- and magnesium-rich foods (like shellfish, beef, pumpkin seeds, spinach)
Consider retesting in 3–6 months
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