Acebldccnc
The ACE test measures the level of angiotensin converting enzyme in your blood to help diagnose and monitor certain medical conditions.
{"ACE is an enzyme that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance","Elevated ACE levels are often associated with sarcoidosis","The test uses a simple blood sample from a vein","Results help doctors monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1857-2
- Short code
- ACE
- Synonyms
- ACE Bld-cCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Red top serum separator tube (SST) or gold top tiger top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 9
- Ref high
- 67
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- Enzymatic assay using spectrophotometric detection of hippuric acid or other substrate cleavage products
- CPT
- 82164
- SNOMED
- 313295005
- Specimen volume
- 2-3 mL of venous blood
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 5-7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): several weeks
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) test measures the amount and activity of ACE in your blood. ACE is an enzyme produced primarily in the lungs and blood vessels that plays a crucial role in the renin-angiotensin system, which controls blood pressure and fluid balance in the body.
Why is it performed?
The ACE test is primarily used to help diagnose and monitor sarcoidosis, a condition where inflammatory cells form clumps called granulomas in various organs. ACE is produced by these granulomas, so elevated levels in the blood can indicate active disease. The test may also be used to evaluate certain other conditions affecting the lungs or to monitor how well treatment is working.
How to prepare
No special preparation is typically required for the ACE test. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However, inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, as some drugs may affect ACE levels. The test is performed using a small blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm.
Understanding your results
Normal ACE levels vary by laboratory. Elevated ACE levels may indicate sarcoidosis, but can also be seen in other conditions such as Gaucher disease, certain infections, or liver disease. Low ACE levels are less common but can occur with some medications or conditions. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your symptoms and other test findings.
Reference range
Reference range: 9-67 U/L (units may vary by laboratory methodology)N/A
No special preparation required. Patient does not need to fast. Inform laboratory of any ACE inhibitor medications as they may affect results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Does a normal ACE level mean I don't have sarcoidosis?
Can medications affect my ACE test results?
How often do I need this test?
Is the ACE test painful?
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