[Involvement of the polypeptide system and ACE in Crohn disease]

The polypeptidyc system was studied and serum concentrations of ACE (Angiotension Converting Enzyme) were assayed in patients with Crohn's disease in the active and stabilising phases. The study was undertaken on the assumption that as a granulomatous condition Crohn's disease involves the polypeptidyc system in much the same way as in sarcoidosis. The results confirm the hypothesis revealing a significant increase in ACE levels in patients with the active disease, whereas levels in the stabilized disease were lower than in the controls. It is suggested that, as in sarcoidosis, ACE levels are useful in the diagnosis, prognosis and follow-up of Crohn's disease, especially in relation to the use of steroid drugs.