Plasma Renin Activity (measured as angiotensin I generation rate)
This test measures how much of the enzyme renin your kidneys produce, which helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance. Renin plays a key role in the body’s renin-angiotensin system.
["Renin activity helps assess kidney function and blood pressure regulation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12905-6
- Short code
- Renin sp7 p chal Plas-cCnc
- Synonyms
- Renin sp7 p chal Plas-cCnc
- 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 such as primary aldosteronism, chronic kidney disease, or heart failure. It can also help diagnose certain hormonal imbalances or evaluate kidney function in people with unexplained blood pressure changes.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is collected in a special tube to separate plasma, which is then analyzed in a lab to measure renin activity. This process typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch when the needle is inserted.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications (like some blood pressure drugs) or foods (like salt) for a short time before testing, depending on your doctor’s instructions. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your overall health, symptoms, and other test results. Elevated levels may suggest conditions like primary aldosteronism or kidney disease, while low levels could indicate conditions such as kidney failure or certain hormonal disorders.
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 activity may indicate overactive kidney function or certain hormonal imbalances that can contribute to high blood pressure or fluid retention. Low renin activity could signal kidney dysfunction or other systemic conditions affecting hormone regulation. This test is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions related to blood pressure, kidney health, and endocrine function.
Short name
Renin Activity
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal renin levels?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before 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