Short Name: ACE
Sample required: Serum
Result Time: 1 Days
Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) is a catalytic glycoprotein, which cleaves angiotensin I to generete the active form of the hormone, angiotensin II. It is produced by endothelial cells to help regulate blood pressure, acting as a vasoconstricting agent. This test is of diagnostic and prognostic use in sarcoidosis and other lung pathologies such as silicosis and asbestosis. ELEVATED levels are associated with diabetes, histoplasmosis, hyperthyroidism, lymphoma, alcoholic cirrhosis, Gauchers disease, tuberculosis, and leprosy. DECREASED levels may be seen in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, emphysema, and lung caner.