Enzyme treatment fights lung damage

Monday, May 18, 1998 | 9:46 a.m.

Jerry Treichel of Las Vegas is a pioneer when it comes to fighting lung damage from emphysema with an enzyme.

Treichel, 55, was diagnosed with a rare missing enzyme known as alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT). A deficiency destroys the smallest cells in the lungs -- acinar units -- down in the aveoli where carbon dioxide is exchanged for oxygen.

The missing alpha 1-antitrypsin enzyme is a genetic marker for lung disease, which is made worse when the sufferer smokes or is exposed to chronic air pollution. Treichel smoked cigarettes and was exposed to pollution.

In some affected individuals the AAT protein is defective and damages the liver as well, causing cirrhosis. In others, the liver produces insufficient protein or in a form which the liver cannot release. In normal people, AAT protects the lungs from damage by a natural enzyme released during infection or inflammation.

If the AAT protection fails, profound emphysema can develop in people as young as 30 years old. Treichel noticed he was short of breath in his early 40s when he went hunting. In Treichel's case, he received an experimental human enzyme 11 years ago.

One in 2,500 individuals carry such a defective gene. In Nevada, that means 712 people could carry it. About 30 people have been diagnosed with the defective gene and three of them have already died in Nevada.

Since early detection is important, Treichel urges those with shortness of breath, who cough after laughing or smoking and who are related to anyone with lung disease to have a free blood test.

The free screening is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 30 at the Boulevard Mall, 3528 S. Maryland Parkway.

Olsten Health Services Infusion Therapy, the Alpha 1-Antitrypsin Deficiency National Association, Associated Pathologists Laboratories and Bayer Pharmaceutical Division are sponsors.