Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) blood test
Quick answer: An ACE test measures the level of angiotensin-converting enzyme in your blood. Doctors mainly use it to help diagnose and follow sarcoidosis, an illness that causes small patches of inflammation in organs such as the lungs.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You sit down and the staff member checks your name and details
- 2The inside of your elbow is cleaned
- 3A needle draws a small amount of blood into a tube
- 4Pressure is applied with cotton and a plaster is put on
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can be seen with sarcoidosis and sometimes with other lung or liver conditions. A low level can be seen in people taking ACE-inhibitor blood pressure medicines.
Who usually has this test
People with suspected or known sarcoidosis, for example with unexplained cough, swollen glands in the chest or eye inflammation.
Risks and aftercare
Minor bruising at the needle site is possible; otherwise nothing special is needed.
Names and options
Also called: ACE level, serum ACE
Listed by the hospital as
- ANGIOTENSIN CONVERTING ENZYME, SERUM
Questions about this test
Can an ACE test diagnose sarcoidosis on its own?
No. A raised ACE supports the diagnosis but is not raised in everyone with sarcoidosis. Doctors usually also use chest imaging and sometimes a biopsy.
Do blood pressure tablets affect my ACE result?
ACE-inhibitor medicines such as ramipril or enalapril can lower the level. Tell your doctor if you take them, but do not stop them without advice.
Why is the ACE test repeated during sarcoidosis treatment?
In some people the level falls when the disease settles. Repeat tests can help your doctor see how you are responding, along with your symptoms and scans.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.