From the Research
Elevated IL-18 levels are not directly linked to causing high ACE test results, as IL-18 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in immune responses, while ACE is an enzyme primarily associated with blood pressure regulation and is measured to help diagnose conditions like sarcoidosis. These are separate biological markers with different physiological roles. However, if both markers are elevated, it might indicate underlying inflammatory conditions that affect both pathways. Certain inflammatory diseases like sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, or other granulomatous disorders can potentially cause elevations in both IL-18 and ACE through different mechanisms.
Key Points to Consider
- IL-18 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a role in various infectious, metabolic, or inflammatory diseases, as seen in studies such as 1 and 2.
- ACE is an enzyme associated with blood pressure regulation and is used to diagnose conditions like sarcoidosis.
- Elevated IL-18 levels have been correlated with disease severity and inflammatory markers in conditions such as sepsis and COVID-19, as shown in studies like 2 and 3.
- The relationship between IL-18 and ACE is indirect, and elevations in both may indicate underlying inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Implications
If you're experiencing abnormal test results showing both elevated IL-18 and ACE levels, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper clinical interpretation, as this combination may help in diagnosing the specific underlying condition requiring treatment. The most recent and highest quality study, 2, highlights the importance of IL-18 in COVID-19 pathogenesis, which may provide insight into the clinical significance of elevated IL-18 levels in various inflammatory conditions.