Contributed by – Healthians Team
What is the ACE blood test?
Basically, an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) blood test is done to evaluate the levels of ACE in the blood.
The angiotensin converting enzyme helps regulate blood pressure. It converts Angiotensin I to Angiotensin II which can cause small blood vessels in the body to tighten and narrow which, in turn, increases the blood pressure.
Having high levels of ACE is linked with a condition called sarcoidosis. It’s a disorder that mainly affects the lungs but has the potential of affecting many other body organs including eyes, skin, nerves, liver, and heart.
Who should get an ACE Test done?
The ACE blood test is usually ordered when someone has granulomas. Granulomas are a classic feature of sarcoidosis. They are small tumor-like masses of immune cells and fibrous tissues. They form nodules under the skin and in organs and have the potential to change the structure of the tissues around them causing damage and inflammation. The normal functions of the organs may also get interfered because of them.
Other than the presence of granulomas, an ACE test is also asked for when symptoms like chronic cough, shortness of breath, extreme tiredness, chest pain, stiff joints, dry mouth, and headache are also present.
Why is the ACE test needed?
The basic need for an ACE blood test is to diagnose sarcoidosis. People with this condition may need to get their ACE levels regularly tested to check how severe the condition is and how well the treatment is working.
What does ACE blood test results mean?
The normal range for the ACE blood test is less than 40 nmol/mL/min. However, each lab has its own reference range. Only a healthcare professional is better equipped to interpret the results and diagnose a condition.
Usually, the following conditions are the cause of higher ACE levels in the blood:
- Sarcoidosis
- Primary biliary cirrhosis
- Hyperthyroidism
- Diabetes
- Lung disease
- Gaucher disease
- Leprosy
And, the following conditions could become the cause of low ACE levels:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Hypothyroidism
- Cystic fibrosis
- Emphysema
How is the ACE blood test done?
For the ACE blood test, a small sample of blood is taken from a vein in the arm. The process is simple and doesn’t take more than a few minutes.
The healthcare provider first ties a tight elastic band around the upper arm. This makes the vein easier to find. The desired area will be cleaned with an antiseptic. Then a needle attached with a tube will be inserted into the vein. A small prick might be felt when the vein is punctured. The blood gets collected in the attached tube and when a sufficient amount is drawn, the needle is removed. Lastly, a bandage will be applied to the site and the blood sample will be sent to a lab for testing.
Note that there is no kind of special preparation required for an ACE blood test. There is no need to fast or refrain from taking any prescription medications. Still, it is always a good idea to inform the doctor about any medications or conditions that a patient might have, especially when the medications are blood thinning.
