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ACE levelsAlternative namesSerum angiotensin-converting enzyme; SACEDefinitionThis is a blood test that measures the amount of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).How the test is performedBlood is drawn from a vein on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to fill with blood.
A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.
Blood is drawn from a vein on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to fill with blood.
A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.
After the blood has been drawn, it is sent to a laboratory to be evaluated. How to prepare for the testFood and fluids may be restricted for up to 12 hours before the test. People taking steroid therapy should consult their health care providers because steroids can decrease ACE levels.For infants and children: The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
How the test will feelWhen the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.Why the test is performedACE levels can be used in the evaluation of sarcoidosis and other diseases that are caused or aggravated by constricted blood vessels. People with sarcoidosis may have their ACE levels tested regularly to evaluate the severity of the disease and to monitor the response to therapy. This test also helps confirm Gaucher's disease and leprosy .Normal ValuesNormal values vary with age and with the test method used. Typically, adults have ACE levels less than 40 micrograms/L. What abnormal results meanThis test is often used to help diagnose sarcoidosis, a condition in which ACE levels are increased 75% of the time. Elevated ACE levels may also be seen in several other disorders, including:
What the risks areThe risks associated with having blood drawn are:
Special considerationsVeins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.Update Date: 2/9/2004Frank A. Greco, M.D., Ph.D., Director, Biophysical Laboratory, The Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. |
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Last updated: Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:20:03 GMT 82:165:250:120:medical-dictionary-search-enginescom:0902 |