Renin activity in plasma (measured by immunoassay)
This test measures the amount of renin, an enzyme produced by your kidneys that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
["Renin activity helps assess kidney function and blood pressure regulation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58811-1
- Short code
- Renin p chal Plas-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Renin p chal Plas-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- 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 if you have symptoms like high blood pressure, kidney problems, or conditions affecting fluid balance (e.g., heart failure, diabetes). It can also help diagnose or monitor certain kidney-related disorders or evaluate responses to medications.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to measure renin levels in your plasma. This test is typically done after fasting for a few hours to ensure accurate results.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could affect results. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your medical history and symptoms. Abnormal levels may suggest conditions like primary aldosteronism, kidney disease, or other hormonal imbalances.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High renin levels may indicate overactive kidney function or conditions that cause excessive fluid retention or high blood pressure. Low renin levels could signal kidney dysfunction, certain hormonal deficiencies, or other systemic issues. Your doctor will use these results alongside other tests and symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.
Short name
Plasma Renin Activity (PRA)
Frequently asked questions
What are the normal ranges for this test?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect 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