The effect of tamoxifen in intermediate alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency associated with the phenotype PiSZ.

Three patients, one with lung disease and two with liver disease, with intermediate alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency phenotype PiSZ, (plasma AAT concentration approximately 1/3 of normal) were treated with the anti-oestrogen drug, tamoxifen, for 2-24 months. Patients responded with 50-70% increases in plasma AAT concentrations. Progress of emphysema appeared to be retarded in one case but no improvement in liver function was recorded in the other two patients.