What is Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE), Serum

Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE), Serum refers to a specific protein enzyme found in the blood. This enzyme plays a vital role in the body's renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which regulates blood pressure and fluid balance. It's commonly tested in the medical field for diagnosing and monitoring certain health conditions.

• ACE Function: ACE transforms the hormone angiotensin I into angiotensin II. This conversion is a crucial step in the RAAS, as angiotensin II works to narrow blood vessels and release aldosterone, a hormone that boosts sodium and water reabsorption in the kidneys.
• ACE Test: An ACE serum test is a blood test that measures the level of ACE in the blood. Elevated levels can be an indication of diseases like sarcoidosis, a condition causing inflammation in various organs, primarily the lungs and lymph glands.
• ACE Inhibitors: ACE inhibitors are a type of medication prescribed to treat conditions like high blood pressure and heart failure. They work by inhibiting the action of ACE, thereby reducing the production of angiotensin II. This results in the dilation of blood vessels and a decrease in blood volume, reducing the workload on the heart.
• ACE and COVID-19: There has been significant interest in ACE concerning COVID-19, as the virus uses ACE2, a variant of ACE, to enter cells. However, it's essential to note that ACE and ACE2 have different functions and are not the same.

When is Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE), Serum required?

The Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) serum test is typically required when a patient shows symptoms suggestive of a condition called sarcoidosis. Sarcoidosis is a disease that results in the formation of small granulomas or clumps of inflammatory cells in different parts of the body. These symptoms may include:

• Fatigue or general feeling of being unwell
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent dry cough
• Shortness of breath, wheezing or chest pain
• Tender, red bumps on the skin
• Blurry vision or eye pain
• Arthritis, particularly in the ankles

Who requires Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE), Serum?

The Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) serum test is usually recommended to patients who are suspected to have conditions such as sarcoidosis, Gaucher disease, and hyperthyroidism. This test may also be suggested in the following circumstances:

• As a part of the diagnostic process for people who have symptoms suggestive of sarcoidosis or other granulomatous diseases.
• For monitoring the disease activity and treatment efficacy in patients who have been diagnosed with sarcoidosis or other granulomatous diseases.
• For individuals who have a family history of sarcoidosis or other granulomatous diseases, as a preventative measure.

What is measured in Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE), Serum?

• The amount of angiotensin converting enzyme present in the blood serum is measured in the ACE serum test.
• The test measures the level of ACE, an enzyme that is produced by cells in the lungs and other parts of the body. Elevated levels of ACE in the blood suggest an increased activity of this enzyme, which can be indicative of a granulomatous disease such as sarcoidosis.
• However, it's worth noting that ACE levels can also be elevated in other conditions such as liver disease, diabetes, lung cancer, tuberculosis, and leprosy. Therefore, the results of the ACE serum test should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and the results of other diagnostic tests.

What is Methodology of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE), Serum?

• Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) is a key enzyme that aids in the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II in the body.
• Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, which means it narrows the blood vessels and increases blood pressure. It's also involved in the release of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention by the kidneys.
• The ACE Serum test is designed to measure the amount of ACE in the blood. High levels of ACE can be indicative of specific medical conditions, most notably sarcoidosis - a disease that causes inflammation in various organs.
• The test methodology typically involves a blood sample drawn from the patient. It is then sent to a laboratory where ACE levels are measured using a variety of techniques, often enzymatic assays.\

How to Prepare for Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE), Serum?

• Preparing for an ACE Serum test is relatively straightforward. No specific preparation is usually required, such as fasting or adjusting medication schedules.
• However, it's important to inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you're currently taking, as some can influence ACE levels and may skew the results.
• Patients should also disclose any recent illnesses or medical conditions to their healthcare provider, as these can also potentially affect ACE levels.
• It is recommended to wear a short-sleeved shirt or a shirt with sleeves that can be easily rolled up to facilitate the blood draw.

What Happens During Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE), Serum?

• During an ACE Serum test, a healthcare professional will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle.
• The procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort. The needle site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and cause the vein to swell with blood.
• Once the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood is collected into a vial or syringe. The elastic band is then removed, and the needle site is covered with a bandage to stop any bleeding.
• The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results are usually available within a few days.

What is Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE)?

The Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) is an enzyme that is primarily found in the lungs but also exists in smaller amounts in other parts of the body. It plays a significant role in the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS), which regulates blood pressure. ACE converts the hormone angiotensin I into angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor that causes blood vessels to narrow, thereby increasing blood pressure.

Serum Normal Range

• The normal range of ACE in the blood, also referred to as the serum normal range, can vary slightly depending on the lab that analyzes the blood sample. However, the generally accepted range is between 8 to 52 U/L (units per liter).
• An ACE level within this range is considered normal, while levels outside this range are considered abnormal and may suggest certain medical conditions.

Reasons for Abnormal Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE)

• Increased ACE levels can be indicative of conditions such as sarcoidosis, a disease that causes inflammation in various organs of the body.
• Other conditions associated with high ACE levels include Gaucher's disease, hyperthyroidism, lymphoma, and tuberculosis.
• Decreased ACE levels, on the other hand, may be associated with conditions such as emphysema, amyloidosis, chronic liver disease, and hypothyroidism.

How to maintain normal Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Serum range

• Maintain a healthy diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help maintain a healthy blood pressure and thus a normal ACE serum range.
• Regular exercise: Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial for maintaining normal blood pressure levels and a normal ACE serum range.
• Lifestyle modifications: Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also help in maintaining a normal ACE serum range.
• Regular check-ups: Regular medical check-ups and blood tests are important to monitor ACE levels and detect any abnormalities early.

Precautions and Aftercare tips post Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Serum

• Post-test, it's crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep your ACE levels in the normal range.
• If your test results show an abnormal ACE level, follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding treatment and management of the underlying condition.
• After the blood draw, apply a clean bandage and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity with the arm used for the blood draw.
• Keep the puncture site clean and dry to prevent infections.

Why Book with Bajaj Finserv Health?

Here are some compelling reasons to opt for Bajaj Finserv Health:

• Precision: All labs recognized by Bajaj Finserv Health are equipped with the most recent technologies ensuring highly accurate results.
• Cost-effectiveness: Our individual diagnostic tests and providers are extensively inclusive and do not put a strain on your financial resources.
• Home sample collection: We offer the convenience of sample collection from your home at a time that suits you best.
• Nationwide presence: Our medical test services are accessible no matter your location in the country.
• Flexible payment options: You can select from one of the available payment methods, be it cash or digital.