Aldosterone, LC/MS
Use
Evaluate patients with hypertension and possible hyperaldosteronism
Special Instructions
Instructions for suppression/stimulation tests involving serum aldosterone measurement are available in the online Endocrine Appendices, including Dexamethasone Suppression and ACTH Stimulation. Additionally, information about multiple-specimen testing can be found in the provided online documents.
Limitations
The test's performance characteristics were determined by Labcorp, and it has not been cleared or approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Factors such as decreased perfusion to the kidneys can lead to increased aldosterone and renin levels, affecting the test results. Renal conditions such as hemorrhage, dehydration, or narrowed renal arteries can also alter renin and aldosterone concentrations, potentially confounding the interpretation of results.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1763-2
- 1763-2
Result Turnaround Time
4-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1.2 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
If a tube other than gel-barrier is used, transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube.
Patient Preparation
The patient should be taken off medications for at least three weeks prior to sample collection. Dietary sodium levels prior to testing can affect aldosterone levels. The patient should be ambulatory for at least 30 minutes before blood collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis; gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |