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ensin-converting enzyme in your blood. ACE is the main component of the renin–angiotensin system, which regulates the volume of body fluids and controls blood pressure. Angiotensin Converting Enzyme converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Due to the presence of angiotensin II in your blood, the small blood vessels in your body narrow or tighten, leading to increased blood pressure. Angiotensin II also increases the sensation of thirst and encourages the release of hormones involved in fluid retention.
Angiotensin Converting Enzyme test is useful in monitoring and diagnosing Sarcoidosis, an inflammatory disease in which clumps or granulomas of inflammatory cells form in various organs. Your ACE levels will be increased if you have a health complication called Sarcoidosis. Your healthcare provider may also use the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme level test to assess the effectiveness of treatments for many other medical conditions. An ACE level test may also be used to detect Gaucher's disease.
What is the Purpose of the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test?
Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test measures the level of angiotensin-converting enzyme in your blood. It is used to differentiate a systemic condition known as sarcoidosis from other disorders causing similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may also order this test to confirm leprosy and Gaucher disease. Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme levels are elevated in most of the leprosy patients, both untreated and treated.
Higher than normal Angiotensin Converting Enzyme level may indicate you have sarcoidosis. ACE levels may fall or rise as sarcoidosis improves or worsens. So, the doctor may order an Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test to monitor the progression of sarcoidosis and how you're responding to its treatment.
Why Do You Need an Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test?
You may need an Angiotensin Converting Enzyme test to aid in the diagnosis of sarcoidosis, a serious health disorder that leads to inflammatory nodule production in various body tissues. The doctor may order this test to determine your ACE level and monitor the effectiveness of treatment for various diseases. You may also have to go through this test if you exhibit the following symptoms:
- Dry mouth
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Loss of appetite
- Nose bleeding
- Night sweat
- Joint pain
The ACE level test can also be used to monitor the progression of Gaucher's disease. Gaucher's disease is an inherited condition that builds up lipids in internal organs and cells. Symptoms of Gaucher's disease include bruising, bone pain, and fatigue. Elevated levels of the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme can indicate you have Gaucher's disease. This test can also be used to track responses to various medical therapies.
Higher than normal ACE levels may indicate that you have histoplasmosis, cirrhosis, amyloidosis, tuberculosis, lymphoma, Hansen's disease (leprosy), and psoriasis. This test can also be performed along with other tests to confirm a diagnosis.
Preparation and Procedure Required for Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test
If you're undergoing Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test, you may be advised not to drink or eat anything for up to twelve hours before the test. You should also inform your doctor if you're taking any blood thinning medications, as they may alter the test results. Stop taking steroids before this test, as they can decrease ACE levels. You should also follow your healthcare provider's or technician's instructions before undergoing this test.
During the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test, the technician will take your blood sample from the vein in your arm. To draw your blood, the technician will put a tight band around your arm so that your veins are clearly visible. They will thoroughly clean the desired area and insert a needle. You may feel moderate pain when the needle is inserted. The drawn blood will be collected in a tube attached to the needle's end. When enough blood has been drawn, the technician will remove the needle. They will put gauze over the area from where your blood was drawn. The blood sample will be sent to the lab for detailed analysis.
Understanding Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Test Results
The results may vary depending on the lab you have used and your age. Since some laboratories test different samples and use different methods of measurements. Hence, normal value ranges can vary slightly. The ACE level of adults should be less than 40 micrograms/L. You should consult your healthcare provider to discuss your test results and understand the meaning of the specific findings.
Abnormal Results
A low ACE level can be an indication of the following diseases and disorders:
- Underactive thyroid
- Chronic liver disease
- Steroid therapy (usually prednisone)
- Chronic kidney failure
- Anorexia nervosa
Higher than normal angiotensin-converting enzyme level may indicate you have sarcoidosis. ACE levels may fall or rise as sarcoidosis improves or worsens. Higher ACE levels can also be a sign of the following diseases and disorders:
- Stomach ulcer / Gastric Ulcer
- Cancer of the lymphatic tissue/ Lymphomas.
- Overactive parathyroid gland
- Less production of hormones by adrenal glands
- Overactive Thyroid
- Kidney disorder known as nephrotic syndrome
- Lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, cancer, or tuberculosis
- Liver swelling and inflammation due to the consumption of alcohol
- Diabetes mellitus
- Multiple Sclerosis
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