Skip to content

Plasma Renin Activity (Renin Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of renin in your blood plasma, a hormone that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.

Quick summary

["Renin helps control how much fluid stays in your body and how much pressure your blood exerts against artery walls."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58813-7
Short code
Renin sp2 Plas-mCnc
Synonyms
Renin sp2 Plas-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
plasma
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 to check for conditions affecting your kidneys, blood pressure, or hormones. It can help diagnose or monitor kidney disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), or hormonal imbalances like primary aldosteronism or adrenal insufficiency.

What Does the Test Involve?

You’ll have a blood sample drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate plasma, where renin levels are measured using a sensitive lab technique.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications (especially blood pressure drugs) or recent illnesses that might affect results.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Results aren’t always given in a single number. Your doctor will compare your renin level to your blood pressure and kidney function to determine if further testing or treatment is needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Renin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal renin levels?
Abnormally high renin levels may be linked to conditions like kidney disease, certain types of high blood pressure, or hormonal imbalances. Abnormally low levels could suggest adrenal gland problems or medications that affect fluid balance.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, as no fasting is required for this test.
  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