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Angiotensin-converting enzyme (apf) in blood
Last reviewed: 05.07.2025
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Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the blood is a specific enzyme present in small quantities in the epithelial tissue of the kidneys, mainly in the human lungs, and also in the blood serum. The name of the enzyme explains its functions. ACE is really capable of converting angiotensin into another form. Regulators of vascular tension, pressure - these are angiotensins. The first biologically inactive form - angiotensin-I with the help of ACE is transformed into angiotensin-II, which performs important functions: it activates the formation of a hormone responsible for the state of mineral metabolism - aldosterone and regulates the contraction of blood vessels. We can say that angiotensin-II is a threat to all hypertensive patients, since it is involved in increasing blood pressure
In addition to the fact that angiotensin-converting enzyme converts angiotensin, it also neutralizes the action of a peptide that dilates blood vessels and reduces blood pressure - this is bradykinin. ACE is responsible in particular for both water and electrolyte metabolism.
When the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the blood goes beyond the normal range, it is an indicator of many health problems.
An analysis of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the blood is prescribed to diagnose:
- Benign lymphogranulomatosis (Besnier-Böck-Schaumann disease, sarcoidosis) since ACE functions mainly in the lungs.
- To adjust therapeutic measures for sarcoidosis.
- Adjustments to ACE inhibitor therapy.
- A rare autosomal recessive disease - Gaucher disease, as well as leprosy.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the blood depends on age and should normally be:
- For children from one to 12 years old – no more than 37 U/L.
- In older children: from 13 to 16 years old – from 9 to 33.5 U/L.
- For people over 16 years old – from 6 to 26.6 U/L.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the blood is determined using a biochemical serum test. The analysis is performed only in the morning, on an empty stomach.
The following factors may influence the results of the ACE:
- Taking medications containing acetate, chloride, bromide, nitrate, and triiodothyronine can significantly increase ACE levels.
- Taking medications such as ramipril, enalapril, perindopril, and captopril can significantly lower ACE levels.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the blood, significantly exceeding the normal range, may indicate:
- Benign lymphogranulomatosis.
- Acute bronchitis.
- Pulmonary fibrosis, tuberculosis.
- Arthritis, including rheumatoid.
- Lymphadenitis (including cervical).
- Mycoses (histoplasmosis).
- Gaucher disease.
- Chronic hyperthyroidism.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the blood, significantly below the normal limit, indicates:
- Terminal stages of the oncological process.
- Lung pathologies (obstruction).
- Terminal stage of tuberculosis.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the blood is certainly a serious analytical study that requires careful and competent interpretation. Despite such serious and alarming previous information, it should be noted that the properties of ACE have been studied well enough and drugs have long been developed - ACE inhibitors, with the help of which medicine controls hypertension, prevents renal failure in diabetics and the consequences of myocardial infarction.
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