Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) is an enzyme which helps regulate blood pressure. It converts angiotensin I (an inactive protein) to angiotensin II which causes arteries to contract, making them temporarily narrower and increasing the pressure of the blood flowing through them. ACE is produced throughout the body, but is present in especially high amounts within the lungs. It is normally found at a high concentration in…Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) is an enzyme which helps regulate blood pressure. It converts angiotensin I (an inactive protein) to angiotensin II which causes arteries to contract, making them temporarily narrower and increasing the pressure of the blood flowing through them. ACE is produced throughout the body, but is present in especially high amounts within the lungs. It is normally found at a high concentration in the bloodstream of those less than 20 years of age, and will usually then drop to lower concentrations in healthy adults.Increased amounts of ACE are sometimes produced by cells found at the outside borders of granulomas. Granulomas are a classic feature of sarcoidosis, a disorder (the cause of which is unknown) that often affects the lungs but may also affect many other body organs including the eyes, skin, nerves, liver, and heart. About 50-80% of patients with active sarcoidosis will have elevated concentrations of ACE in their bloodstream that will rise and fall as the severity of the disease changes. Granulomas, fibrosis, and an elevated ACE concentration may also be seen in infections such as leprosy and tuberculosis. The granulomas form around the invading bacteria in these infections and can also form around irritant particles in poisons such as beryllium, asbestos, and silicon. How is the sample collected for testing? A blood sample is taken by inserting a needle into a vein in the arm. Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample? No test preparation is needed. See MoreSee Less
