Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration of Aldosterone (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of aldosterone, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, in your blood. It helps assess how well your body regulates salt and water balance.
["Aldosterone helps control blood pressure and fluid balance; abnormal levels may signal conditions like adrenal disorders or kidney issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12685-4
- Short code
- GH sp2 p chal SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- GH sp2 p chal SerPl-sCnc
- 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 such as primary or secondary hyperaldosteronism, adrenal insufficiency, or certain types of high blood pressure (e.g., resistant hypertension). It can also help evaluate kidney function or rule out conditions like Conn’s syndrome.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications (like potassium-sparing diuretics) for a few days before testing. If you’re on blood pressure medications, check with your doctor first. Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will clean the area where the needle will go, insert a small needle into your vein, and collect a blood sample. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Are the Possible Results?
Results are compared to standard reference ranges, but exact values can vary by lab. High aldosterone levels may indicate overactivity of your adrenal glands, while low levels could suggest adrenal gland problems or other health issues.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Aldosterone Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal aldosterone levels?
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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