by 
The Curious Bag
-
Doctors use an ACE test to help identify and manage sarcoidosis, a chronic condition that causes swelling in tissues such as lymph nodes, eyes and skin.
Identification
The ACE test, short for angiotensin-converting enzyme, looks for high concentrations of ACE in the bloodstream, which is associated with sarcoidosis.
Correlation
An ACE test cannot absolutely confirm the presence of sarcoidosis, but increased levels of ACE in the blood are found in 50 to 80 percent of those with the condition.
Method
To perform an ACE test, the doctor pressurizes the upper arms with a band and draws blood from a vein on the elbow or back of the hand. The doctor removes the band, cleans up the puncture site and sends the sample to a lab.
Normal Concentration
According to the US National Institute of Health, a healthy adult has ACE levels below 40 micrograms per liter of blood.
Tips
People getting ready to undergo an ACE test should stay away from food and liquids as much as possible for at least 12 hours before the test. Those taking steroids should notify the doctor, as they can artificially lower ACE levels in the blood.
Source:
LabTestsOnline.org: The ACE Test
National Institute of Health: ACE Levels
More Information:
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC