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Serum/plasma mass concentration of aldosterone

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

This test measures the amount of aldosterone, a hormone 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
27888-7
Short code
GH sp2 p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH sp2 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 diagnose or monitor conditions affecting your adrenal glands, such as hyperaldosteronism (excess aldosterone), hypoaldosteronism (low aldosterone), or adrenal insufficiency. It can also help evaluate symptoms like high blood pressure, unusual thirst, or low potassium levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. If you’re taking certain medications, let your healthcare provider know.

How the Test Is Done

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab to measure aldosterone levels using a sensitive analytical method.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to reference ranges for your age, sex, and overall health. High aldosterone levels may indicate conditions like primary aldosteronism, while low levels could suggest adrenal gland issues 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 long does it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready to discuss them.
Do I need to avoid certain foods or drinks before this test?
Unless instructed otherwise, you can eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies fasting. Avoiding certain medications (like some blood pressure drugs) may also be advised—always follow your provider’s guidance.
Can I take this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood draw in a clinical setting. If you have concerns about the procedure, ask your doctor about any anxiety-reducing steps they can take.
  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