Hello docs, is alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency life-threatening?

Alpha1 AT Deficiency: Alpha one anti trypsin (aat) deficiency causes emphysema, a form of chronic ; progressive lung disease among smokers. There are different grades of severity depending on the type of gene defect one inherits. Rarely, it can present in childhood with liver cirrhosis. Typically, disease presents itself in the 40's in smokers.

Yes: With some variation, the form presenting in childhood can lead to liver failure and death if a liver transplant is not available. The chronic lung issues are disabling for some.