PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
OVERVIEW:
What is the ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) lab test?
An ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) lab test is a blood test that analyzes the level of angiotensin converting enzyme present in the body.
Why is the ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) lab test done?
An ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose sarcoidosis (abnormal collections of inflammatory cells that form lumps),
- Monitor Gaucher’s disease (deficiency of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase results in the accumulation of harmful quantities of certain fats (lipids).
What does an ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) lab test measure?
An ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) lab test measures the amount of angiotensin converting enzyme present in the body. Angiotensin converting enzyme converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II helps in increasing the blood pressure by causing the small vessels to constrict.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
This test carries some risks. Bruising and slight soreness at the site where the needle is inserted are common.
What diseases cause high ACE levels?
Following conditions increase ACE levels in the body:
Cirrhosis (fibrosis of liver), Gaucher’s disease (deficiency of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase results in the accumulation of harmful quantities of certain fats (lipids), diabetes (raised blood sugar level), HIV, hyperthyroidism (hyperfunctioning thyroid gland), psoriasis (skin disorder), and amyloidosis (buildup of amyloid protein in organs).
What diseases cause low ACE levels?
Following conditions decrease ACE levels in the body:
Chronic (long term) obstructive pulmonary (lung) disease, hypothyroidism (decreased secretion of thyroid hormones), cystic fibrosis (inherited disease that affects lungs and digestive system), and emphysema (lung disease that causes shortness of breath).
How should I prepare for this test?
There is no special preparation needed for this test.
Will taking ACE inhibitors affect my ACE level?
Taking angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors regularly will decrease your angiotensin converting enzyme level.
Normal level of angiotensin converting enzyme in adults is 8 – 53 microliters.
An ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) lab test is done in order to:
- Diagnose sarcoidosis (abnormal collections of inflammatory cells that form lumps),
- Monitor Gaucher’s disease (deficiency of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase results in the accumulation of harmful quantities of certain fats (lipids).