Renin, Direct

Also known as: RENIND

Clinical Use

Use

The Renin, Direct test measures the concentration of direct renin in the blood, an enzyme involved in blood pressure regulation and electrolyte balance. The test is commonly used to evaluate hypertension and diagnose primary aldosteronism. It is often performed alongside aldosterone measurements to compute the aldosterone-renin ratio, aiding in the differentiation of primary aldosteronism from other causes of hypertension. Understanding the direct renin level is crucial in assessing the renin-angiotensin system's function, particularly when patients present with symptoms such as uncontrolled or resistant hypertension.

Special Instructions

Not provided.

Limitations

This test should not be used if the patient is currently receiving treatment with Cathepsin B, as it can interfere with test results. Additionally, factors such as posture, time of day, and medication use, particularly estrogen-containing medications, can affect test accuracy. Fasting is recommended to reduce variability, though not strictly required. Specimen collection conditions, including the use of refrigerated tubes or icing of samples, can lead to sample rejection.

Test Details

FDA Approved

New York Approved

Methodology

Immunoassay (CLIA)

Biomarkers

Renin

Analyte

Direct Renin

Concentration / Level • Quantitative (Continuous) (e.g., copies/mL, % expression)

LOINC Codes

Order Codes

35570-1 - Renin Plas-mCnc

Result Turnaround Time

1-5 days

Specimen

Plasma

Volume

2 mL

Minimum Volume

1 mL

Container

Lavender (EDTA) tube; ARUP Standard Transport Tube after centrifugation

Collection Instructions

Collect midmorning between 7am to 10am after patient has been sitting, standing, or walking for at least 30 minutes and seated for 5-15 minutes. Process blood at room temperature and centrifuge in a non-refrigerated centrifuge. Separate plasma from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection and freeze immediately.

Patient Preparation

If patient is supine, they should be in this position for at least 30 minutes prior to collection. Fasting specimens are recommended but not required.