ACE levels

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Blood test

Overview

Risks

Results

ACE levels

Definition:

This is a blood test that measures the amount of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).

Alternative Names:
Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme; SACE
How the test is performed:

Blood is drawn from a vein on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to fill with blood.

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A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

For an infant or young child:

The area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. Cotton or a bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any continued bleeding.

For an infant or young child, the area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. Cotton or a bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any continued bleeding.

After the blood has been drawn, it is sent to a laboratory to be evaluated.

How to prepare for the test:

Food and fluids may be restricted for up to 12 hours before the test. People taking steroid therapy should consult their health care providers because steroids can decrease ACE levels.

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

ACE levels can be used in the evaluation of sarcoidosis and other diseases that are caused or made worse by constricted blood vessels. People with sarcoidosis may have their ACE levels tested regularly to evaluate the severity of the disease and to monitor the response to therapy. This test also helps confirm Gaucher's disease and leprosy.

References:

Ferri FF. Ferri?s Clinical Advisor: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment. 2005 ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2005:1257.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).