Serum or plasma mass concentration of aldosterone
This test measures the amount of aldosterone, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
["Aldosterone helps control how much sodium and potassium your body retains, which affects blood pressure and fluid levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16295-8
- Short code
- 11DC p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- 11DC p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why is this test done?
Your doctor may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like primary aldosteroneism (hyperaldosteronism), adrenal insufficiency, or to check for hormonal imbalances affecting blood pressure or kidney function. It can also help evaluate symptoms such as high blood pressure, low potassium levels, or unexplained fluid retention.
What does the result mean?
Higher-than-normal levels may suggest conditions like aldosterone excess, which can lead to high blood pressure or low potassium. Lower-than-normal levels might indicate adrenal gland problems or other hormonal disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is processed to separate serum or plasma, then analyzed to measure aldosterone concentration using mass spectrometry.
What should you do before the test?
Avoid taking certain medications (like some blood pressure drugs) that may affect aldosterone levels for a few days before testing. Also, inform your doctor about any supplements or over-the-counter medications you’re taking. You may need to fast for a set period, but your doctor will let you know.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Aldosterone level
Frequently asked questions
Abnormal aldosterone levels can cause serious health issues, such as high blood pressure, kidney problems, or irregular heart rhythms. Regular monitoring can help manage conditions like hypertension or adrenal disorders, preventing complications like heart disease or stroke.
High aldosterone levels can result from conditions like primary aldosteronism, kidney disease, or certain medications. Low levels may be linked to adrenal gland disorders, such as Addison’s disease, or conditions affecting hormone production.
Your doctor will determine how often to repeat this test based on your diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment plan. Some patients need monitoring every few months or annually, while others may need it more frequently.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy