What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your ACE levels mean and how they relate to inflammatory conditions or enzyme-related disorders. These notes include personalized recommendations such as lifestyle modifications, when to follow up with a specialist, or whether additional testing is needed. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your ACE levels over time using our trends feature to monitor disease activity or treatment effectiveness.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically available within 1-3 business days after your blood sample is collected at the lab. You'll receive an email notification when your results are ready to view in your secure online account, complete with easy-to-understand doctor notes.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for people experiencing unexplained symptoms like persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, skin rashes, or joint pain that may suggest sarcoidosis. It's also useful for monitoring known cases of sarcoidosis, Gaucher's disease, or lymphoangiomyomatosis. Your doctor may recommend this test if imaging studies or other blood work suggest an inflammatory condition that needs further investigation.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms that may warrant this test include persistent dry cough, difficulty breathing, unexplained fatigue that doesn't improve with rest, skin bumps or rashes, swollen lymph nodes, or joint pain. You might also experience fever, night sweats, weight loss, or eye problems like blurred vision or redness. These symptoms, especially when occurring together, may indicate an inflammatory condition that affects ACE levels.

What is ACE and why does it matter?

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) is a protein produced by various tissues in your body, including blood vessels and lungs. While it normally helps regulate blood pressure, ACE levels can become elevated when certain inflammatory conditions or diseases are present. Measuring ACE helps doctors identify and monitor conditions like sarcoidosis, where immune cells cause inflammation in organs, and track how well treatments are working.

What does high ACE mean?

High ACE levels most commonly indicate sarcoidosis, an inflammatory condition affecting lungs, lymph nodes, and other organs. Elevated levels can also be seen in Gaucher's disease, lymphoangiomyomatosis, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or liver disease. However, some healthy people naturally have higher ACE levels, so your doctor will interpret results alongside your symptoms and other test findings to make an accurate diagnosis.

How often should I retest my ACE levels?

If you've been diagnosed with sarcoidosis or another condition causing elevated ACE, your doctor may recommend retesting every 3-6 months to monitor disease activity and treatment response. More frequent testing might be needed if you're starting new medications or experiencing changing symptoms. Once your condition is stable, testing intervals may be extended to every 6-12 months for ongoing monitoring.