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Serum or plasma 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 salt and water your body retains, which can affect your blood pressure and overall fluid levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107606-6
Short code
LPT CA Bld-aCnc
Synonyms
LPT CA Bld-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why is this test done?

Your doctor may order an aldosterone test to check for conditions like primary aldosteroneism (also called Conn’s syndrome), adrenal gland tumors, or to evaluate symptoms such as high blood pressure, low potassium levels, or unusual thirst and urination patterns.

What does a high aldosterone level mean?

High aldosterone levels may indicate overactivity of your adrenal glands, which can lead to high blood pressure, low potassium, or other health issues. This can sometimes be caused by conditions like primary aldosteroneism or certain medications.

What does a low aldosterone level mean?

Low aldosterone levels may suggest adrenal insufficiency or other conditions affecting hormone production, though this is less common for aldosterone specifically. It could also be due to certain medications or medical treatments.

How is this test performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm, and the sample is sent to a lab to measure aldosterone concentration. The test may be done in the morning for more accurate results.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Aldosterone plays a critical role in blood pressure regulation and fluid balance. Abnormal levels can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart strain, or electrolyte imbalances. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and overall health.

Short name

Aldosterone level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
What should I do if I have questions about my results?
If you receive results that concern you, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can explain what the numbers mean and help you understand any potential next steps or treatments.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
For standard aldosterone tests, you may need to fast for 8 to 12 hours before the blood draw, but follow your doctor’s specific instructions to ensure accurate results.
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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