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Serum or plasma concentration of aldosterone (mass concentration)

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 potassium your body retains, which affects your blood pressure and fluid levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
63305-7
Short code
ENA PCNA Ab Fld Ql IA
Synonyms
ENA PCNA Ab Fld Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like high blood pressure, low potassium levels, or signs of conditions like primary aldosteroneism (Conn’s syndrome), adrenal tumors, or certain kidney disorders. It can also be used to monitor treatment for conditions affecting hormone balance.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications (like some blood pressure drugs) for a short time before testing. If you’re taking potassium-sparing diuretics, your doctor may instruct you to stop them temporarily.

How the Test Works

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure aldosterone levels using a sensitive immunoassay method.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your hormone levels are too high or too low, which can guide treatment decisions. High levels may indicate conditions like primary aldosteroneism, while low levels could suggest adrenal insufficiency or other hormonal imbalances.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Aldosterone level

Frequently asked questions

How does aldosterone affect my health if my levels are abnormal?
Aldosterone plays a key role in managing blood pressure and fluid balance. Abnormally high levels can lead to increased blood pressure, low potassium, or fluid retention, while low levels may cause fatigue, dizziness, or electrolyte imbalances. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and other health factors.
Can diet or medications affect this test?
Yes, certain foods (like high-sodium or high-potassium foods) and medications (such as blood pressure drugs) can influence aldosterone levels. Your doctor may provide specific instructions to ensure accurate results, such as avoiding certain foods or medications for a few days before testing.
What if my results are outside the normal range?
If your results are outside the normal range, your doctor will discuss them with you and may recommend further testing or adjustments to your treatment plan. This could include additional blood tests, imaging, or a referral to a specialist to explore underlying causes.
  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