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Serum or plasma concentration of aldosterone (substance 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.

Quick summary

["Aldosterone helps control how much salt and water your body retains, which can affect your blood pressure and heart health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12681-3
Short code
LH sp6 p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
LH sp6 p chal SerPl-sCnc
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
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 doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like high blood pressure, low potassium levels, or signs of adrenal gland issues. It could also be part of evaluating conditions like primary aldosteroneism (Conn’s syndrome) or adrenal insufficiency.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed unless instructed by your doctor. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm, or a urine sample collected over 24 hours if specified. Avoid certain medications that could affect results, such as potassium-sparing diuretics.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard ranges for aldosterone concentration in serum or plasma. High levels may indicate conditions like primary aldosteroneism, while low levels could suggest adrenal gland problems or other hormonal imbalances.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), hyperaldosteronism, or adrenal adenomas. It may also be used to assess kidney function or fluid-electrolyte balance disorders.

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 Level

Frequently asked questions

What could cause abnormal aldosterone levels?
Abnormal aldosterone levels can be caused by conditions like primary adrenal tumors, certain kidney diseases, or medications that affect aldosterone production. High levels may lead to high blood pressure and low potassium, while low levels may cause fatigue, dizziness, or irregular heartbeat.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition and doctor’s recommendations. Some patients with chronic conditions like hypertension may need this test periodically, while others may only need it once for diagnosis.
Can diet or lifestyle affect aldosterone levels?
Yes, diet high in salt can temporarily raise aldosterone levels, as can certain medications like ACE inhibitors or spironolactone. Lifestyle factors like stress and physical activity may also influence hormone balance, so it’s best to discuss these with your doctor.
  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