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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 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 affects blood pressure and heart function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33829-3
Short code
LH sp9 p chal SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
LH sp9 p chal SerPl-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
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 conditions like primary aldosteroneism (Conn’s syndrome), adrenal tumors, or certain kidney disorders. It may also be used to monitor treatment for conditions affecting hormone balance.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw at a clinic, hospital, or lab. If you’re taking medications that affect blood pressure or hormones, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal aldosterone levels may indicate conditions like aldosterone-producing adenoma or certain kidney diseases. Lower-than-normal levels might suggest adrenal insufficiency or other hormonal imbalances. Your doctor will interpret results in relation to your symptoms and medical history.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), hyperaldosteronism, or to check for adrenal gland disorders that affect hormone production.

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.

Elevated aldosterone levels can lead to sodium retention, potassium loss, and high blood pressure, which can strain your heart and kidneys over time. Low aldosterone may signal adrenal insufficiency or other endocrine issues. Accurate measurement helps guide treatment plans, such as medication adjustments or further diagnostic testing.

Short name

Aldosterone level

Frequently asked questions

What does an abnormal aldosterone level indicate?
An abnormal aldosterone level may signal conditions like adrenal tumors, certain kidney diseases, or hormonal imbalances. High levels could raise concerns about conditions affecting blood pressure or fluid balance, while low levels might point to adrenal gland problems.
How is aldosterone tested?
Aldosterone is measured in a sample of your blood (serum or plasma) using a specialized laboratory test. No special preparation is needed, but your doctor may ask you to avoid certain medications or activities before the test if instructed.
Can diet affect aldosterone test results?
Dietary changes that significantly alter sodium intake (such as very high or very low salt consumption) may influence aldosterone levels. Your doctor might recommend avoiding extreme dietary changes before testing to get more accurate results.
  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