Aldosterone, Inferior Vena Cava, Serum
Use
This test is useful for investigating primary aldosteronism, such as adrenal adenoma/carcinoma and adrenal cortical hyperplasia, as well as secondary aldosteronism, which can occur due to renovascular disease, salt depletion, potassium loading, cardiac failure with ascites, pregnancy, and Bartter syndrome. It provides important data for understanding sodium transport and blood pressure regulation.
Special Instructions
Instructions for collection include discontinuation of Spironolactone (Aldactone) for 4 to 6 weeks prior to specimen collection as it affects interpretation of plasma renin activity. Collect the specimen around 8 a.m. after the patient has been active for approximately 2 hours. Follow detailed instructions from the Renin-Aldosterone Studies documentation.
Limitations
Late afternoon levels of aldosterone can be significantly lower than those collected in the morning. Supine collections yield lower aldosterone values compared to upright collections. Sodium depletion can lead to significantly elevated aldosterone levels. It's important to measure plasma renin activity concomitantly as physiological variables may affect these readings. ACE inhibitors might elevate plasma renin activity, complicating interpretations.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1763-2
- 1763-2
Result Turnaround Time
2-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1.8 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Collect in a red top or acceptable serum gel tube. Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial. Recommended collection time is 8 a.m. after the patient is active for 2 hours.
Patient Preparation
Discontinue Spironolactone (Aldactone) for 4 to 6 weeks before collection.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis: OK; Gross lipemia: OK; Gross icterus: OK
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 4 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 30 days |