Aldosterone, Serum
Use
This test is used for investigating primary aldosteronism, which includes conditions like adrenal adenoma or carcinoma and adrenal cortical hyperplasia. It is also useful in evaluating secondary aldosteronism caused by conditions such as renovascular disease, salt depletion, potassium loading, cardiac failure with ascites, pregnancy, and Bartter syndrome. Aldosterone plays a key role in sodium transport across cell membranes, particularly in the distal renal tubule, and is crucial for maintaining blood pressure and blood volume.
Special Instructions
Spironolactone should be discontinued for 4 to 6 weeks prior to testing. The plasma renin activity cannot be interpreted if the patient is being treated with spironolactone. Detailed collection instructions and test forms can be found in linked PDFs.
Limitations
Late afternoon levels can be significantly lower than early morning levels. The test may yield variably elevated results in sodium-deplete patients. Drugs, such as ACE inhibitors, may affect the interpretation of plasma renin activity, potentially affecting the diagnosis of primary aldosteronism.
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
1.2 mL
Minimum Volume
1.2 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
The recommended collection time is 8 a.m., after the patient has been active for approximately 2 hours, and before 10 a.m. Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Patient Preparation
Spironolactone should be discontinued for 4 to 6 weeks before testing.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 4 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 30 days |