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What is the ACE Test?

The Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) test is a blood test that measures the amount of ACE in your bloodstream. ACE is an enzyme produced primarily in the lungs and blood vessels. It plays an important role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance in your body by converting angiotensin I into angiotensin II, a substance that narrows blood vessels and raises blood pressure.

Why is this Test Performed?

The primary reason doctors order an ACE test is to help diagnose and monitor sarcoidosis. Sarcoidosis is a condition where abnormal clusters of inflammatory cells (called granulomas) form in various organs, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. These granulomas produce excess ACE, so elevated levels in the blood can indicate active disease.

The test may also be used to: monitor how well sarcoidosis treatment is working, evaluate other conditions that might affect ACE levels such as Gaucher disease, leprosy, or certain thyroid problems, and in some cases, help differentiate between different types of lung diseases.

How is the Test Done?

A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. You generally do not need to fast before this test, but it's important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, as some drugs can affect the results.

Understanding Your Results

Normal ACE levels vary depending on the laboratory and the specific testing method used. Elevated ACE levels may suggest active sarcoidosis, but a diagnosis cannot be made based on ACE levels alone. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, imaging studies (like chest X-rays or CT scans), and possibly tissue biopsies to make a complete diagnosis. It is also important to note that some people with sarcoidosis may have normal ACE levels, especially in mild or chronic cases.