Aceprtccnc
This test measures the level of angiotensin-converting enzyme in peritoneal fluid to help diagnose the cause of fluid accumulation in the abdomen.
{"ACE is an enzyme produced mainly by lung blood vessels","Elevated ACE in peritoneal fluid often indicates sarcoidosis","This test helps doctors determine why fluid has accumulated in your abdomen","The procedure is performed during a paracentesis (abdominal tap)","Results help differentiate between benign and malignant causes of ascites"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53581-5
- Short code
- ACEPF
- Synonyms
- ACE Prt-cCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile container for peritoneal fluid collection; red top tube or serum separator tube for concurrent serum sampling
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Spectrophotometric enzymatic assay
- CPT
- 82164
- SNOMED
- 313295006
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL peritoneal fluid minimum
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; frozen (-20°C) for longer storage up to 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Peritoneal Fluid Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) test measures the level of ACE enzyme in fluid collected from your abdominal cavity (peritoneal fluid). ACE is an enzyme primarily produced by endothelial cells lining blood vessels in the lungs. When found in abnormal levels in peritoneal fluid, it can provide important clues about the underlying condition causing fluid accumulation in your abdomen (ascites).
How is the sample collected?
The peritoneal fluid sample is collected through a procedure called paracentesis (abdominal tap). During this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a thin needle through your abdominal wall to withdraw fluid from the peritoneal cavity. The area will be cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. The fluid sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What do the results mean?
Elevated ACE levels in peritoneal fluid are most commonly associated with sarcoidosis, a condition where granulomas (tiny clumps of inflammatory cells) form in various organs. However, your doctor will interpret the results in context with other clinical findings, imaging studies, and possibly other laboratory tests to determine the exact cause of your abdominal fluid accumulation.
Reference range
Reference range not well established for peritoneal fluid; correlates with serum ACE levels. Clinical interpretation should be based on comparison with concurrent serum values and underlying clinical condition.N/A
No special preparation required. Standard venipuncture procedure applies.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need this test?
Is the procedure painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Are there any risks from the paracentesis procedure?
What happens if my ACE level is elevated?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy