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Serum/plasma concentration of aldosterone by immunoassay (qualitative/quantitative screening)

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

This test measures the amount of aldosterone, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, in your blood. It helps assess whether your body is producing too much or too little aldosterone, which can affect your blood pressure and fluid balance.

Quick summary

["Aldosterone levels help diagnose conditions like primary hyperaldosteronism or adrenal insufficiency."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25944-0
Short code
LH sp2 p chal SerPl IRP1-aCnc
Synonyms
LH sp2 p chal SerPl IRP1-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
st-irp
CPT
83002
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 healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms such as high blood pressure, unexplained low potassium levels, or signs of fluid imbalance. It may also be used to evaluate conditions like congestive heart failure, kidney disease, or certain types of hormonal disorders.

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 provider specifies it. Avoid smoking and caffeine for the same period. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may affect results.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method, which detects aldosterone levels in your serum or plasma.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are typically reported as a concentration (e.g., ng/dL or pmol/L). High aldosterone levels may indicate conditions like primary aldosteronism, while low levels could suggest adrenal gland issues or other hormonal imbalances. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Aldosterone Screening (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What does elevated aldosterone mean?
Elevated aldosterone levels often point to **primary hyperaldosteronism**, a condition where your adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, leading to high blood pressure and low potassium levels. This can cause symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or frequent urination. It requires further evaluation, such as additional tests or imaging, to determine the cause and guide treatment.
What does low aldosterone mean?
Low aldosterone levels may suggest **adrenal insufficiency** (e.g., Addison’s disease) or other hormonal imbalances. This can lead to symptoms like dizziness, weight loss, or excessive thirst. Your provider may recommend additional tests or treatments to address the underlying cause.
Can diet or medications affect this test?
Yes, certain medications (e.g., steroids, diuretics, or blood pressure medications) can influence aldosterone levels. Avoiding these or discussing them with your provider before testing can help ensure accurate results. Additionally, dietary sodium intake may temporarily affect results, so follow your provider’s instructions regarding salt restrictions if applicable.
  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