Skip to content

Serum/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 potassium your body retains, which impacts blood pressure and fluid balance."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27846-5
Short code
GH sp24 p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH sp24 p chal SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
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 check for conditions affecting your adrenal glands, such as hyperaldosteronism (too much aldosterone), which can cause high blood pressure or excess potassium loss. It may also be used to diagnose conditions like primary aldosteronism or evaluate symptoms like unexplained high blood pressure or muscle weakness.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. If you’re taking medications that affect aldosterone levels, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your aldosterone levels are too high or too low, which can guide treatment for conditions like hypertension or adrenal disorders. Your doctor will interpret the results in relation to your overall health and symptoms.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions such as Conn’s syndrome (primary aldosteronism), adrenal tumors, or other hormonal imbalances that affect blood pressure and fluid balance.

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 regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. High levels can cause high blood pressure, low potassium, and swelling, while low levels may lead to low blood pressure, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat. Your doctor will use these results to tailor treatment, such as medications or lifestyle changes.
What symptoms might trigger this test?
This test may be ordered if you have symptoms like unexplained high blood pressure, frequent urination, muscle cramps, or fatigue. It’s also used in screening for adrenal disorders or evaluating people with known conditions affecting aldosterone.
Can diet or medications affect my aldosterone test results?
Yes, certain medications (like potassium-sparing diuretics or steroids) and dietary factors (like high salt intake) can influence aldosterone levels. Always inform your doctor about all medications or supplements you take before the test.
  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