Skip to content

Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration of Aldosterone

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of aldosterone, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance in your body.

Quick summary

["Aldosterone helps control how much sodium and water your body retains, which can affect your blood pressure and overall fluid levels."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50718-6
Short code
11DC sp5 p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
11DC sp5 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 (Conn’s syndrome), adrenal insufficiency, or to check for hormonal imbalances that could affect blood pressure or kidney function. It may also be used in patients with high blood pressure, low blood pressure, or symptoms like excessive thirst, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications (like some blood pressure drugs) or foods (like salt) for a short time before testing. Your doctor will provide specific instructions if applicable.

What Happens During the Test?

A blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The sample is then sent to a lab to measure aldosterone levels.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are compared to a general reference range, but your actual values will depend on your health and medical history. High aldosterone levels may suggest conditions like hyperaldosteronism, while low levels could indicate adrenal gland issues or other hormonal problems.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Aldosterone Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you once they have the results and discuss next steps.
What does a high aldosterone level mean?
A high aldosterone level often points to conditions like primary aldosteronism, where your adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone. This can cause high blood pressure and may require treatment to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
What does a low aldosterone level mean?
Low aldosterone levels may indicate adrenal insufficiency (such as Addison’s disease) or other hormonal imbalances. Your doctor will work with you to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment if needed.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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