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Cortical Adrenal Aldosterone Concentration (Serum)

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

This test measures the amount of aldosterone, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, in your blood serum. It helps assess how well your body regulates salt and water balance.

Quick summary

["Aldosterone helps control blood pressure and fluid balance—this test supports diagnosing conditions like adrenal insufficiency or hyperaldosteronism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31336-1
Short code
C corticale Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
C corticale Ab Ser Ql
Category
coagulation
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 This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like high blood pressure, low blood potassium, or signs of adrenal gland issues. It’s also used to evaluate conditions like primary aldosteronism or adrenal crisis.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8 hours before the test if your doctor specifies. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.

How the Test Works

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using a sensitive immunoassay method to measure aldosterone levels.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard reference ranges for aldosterone concentration in serum. Elevated levels may indicate hyperaldosteronism, while low levels could suggest adrenal gland dysfunction or other hormonal imbalances.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Understanding Your Results

Short name

Serum Aldosterone

Frequently asked questions

What could high aldosterone levels mean?
High aldosterone levels often point to conditions like primary aldosteronism (Conn’s syndrome), where the adrenal glands overproduce aldosterone. This can cause high blood pressure and low potassium levels, which may require treatment like medication or surgery.
What could low aldosterone levels mean?
Low aldosterone levels may signal adrenal insufficiency, such as Addison’s disease, where the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones. This can lead to fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure. Your doctor may recommend additional tests or hormone replacement therapy.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition. If you have a known hormonal disorder, your doctor may schedule follow-up tests every few months or as needed. If this is a one-time screening, results may guide future testing if abnormalities are detected.
  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