Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, known as A1AD or AATD, is a genetic disorder that is commonly misdiagnosed as chronic asthma or COPD. Its early detection and non-invasive treatment allows patients to lead a normal life. On the other hand, the failure to timely diagnose it through a simple blood test and treat the disorder, can lead to tragic circumstances—a progressive destruction of lung tissue causing severe loss of lung function and a reduced life expectancy.’
In his 37-plus years of practice, Laird Ozmon has unwittingly become a champion of victims of delayed Alpha-1 diagnosis. He pioneered this litigation having garnered one of the first settlements, $8 million on behalf of his client. He has gone on to recover substantial amounts of money from physicians and their medical practices for their medical malpractice in failing to timely diagnose and treat Alpha-1 patients.
Recently Laird recovered a substantial amount on behalf of a couple who suffered the devastating effects of the spouse’s diminished lung function, inability to work, and a reduced life expectancy. The physician who treated him over a period of 14 years failed to order the tests that would have conclusively established Alpha-1.
Laird is a vocal advocate on behalf of Alpha-1 sufferers. He believes anyone who is diagnosed with chronic asthma or COPD, in their 30s and 40s, should undergo a simple blood test to rule out Alpha-1. If you think you are a victim of delayed diagnosis, please contact Laird at 815.727.7700 or online here.
The more he publicizes the heartbreaking effects of this disorder in contrast to the ease of detection and effectiveness of treatment, the more physicians will consider it in their differential diagnosis and perhaps it will be included in the regular post-natal testing protocol. Then maybe all of us will breathe a little easier.
Learn more about Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD)
