Abstract
Serum angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity was measured in 107 male silicosis patients. In agreement with previous reports, the mean activity of ACE in silicosis patients was elevated (47.4 ± 14.2 U/ml; normal 30.5 ± 8.6). Among the various characteristics of the patient analyzed in this study, only the progression of radiographical profusion category showed a statistically significant association with the elevation of ACE, and severity of dyspnea was inversely associated with ACE. Previous studies on the relationship between ACE and severity of radiographical category have been conflicting and any difference found in our study are also marginal. No association was found between ACE and age of the patient, duration of exposure to dust, and smoking habits.
