Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)
| Category | Biochemistry | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test background |
Increased amounts of ACE often correlate to the presence of granulomas secondary to sarcoidosis, an idiopathic condition that often affects the lungs but may also affect the eyes, skin, nerves, liver and heart. About 50-80 % of patients with active sarcoidosis will have elevated levels of ACE. |
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| Clinical Indications |
Presentation of granulomas, a chronic cough or SOB, red watery eyes and/or joint pain. |
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| Reference range |
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| Sample & container required | SST (gold top) (NB EDTA inhibits ACE activity) | ||||
| Sample volume | 0.5 mL | ||||
| Turnaround time | SST: 1 day | ||||
| Notes | For CSF ACE analysis see CSF Angiotensin Converting Enzyme in the Specialist Protein Section. |