Plasma Renin Activity (measured as renin concentration)
This test measures how much renin your body produces in the plasma. Renin is an enzyme involved in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance.
["Helps assess kidney function and blood pressure regulation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17514-1
- Short code
- Renin sp9 p chal Plas-cCnc
- Synonyms
- Renin sp9 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
What Is Renin Activity Used For?
Renin activity is primarily used to evaluate the renin-angiotensin system, which plays a key role in controlling blood pressure and fluid retention. It can help diagnose conditions like primary aldosteronism or evaluate kidney function in patients with hypertension or kidney disease.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm. The blood is processed to separate plasma, which is then tested for renin concentration using a specialized immunoassay method.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like high blood pressure, unexplained fluid retention, or kidney problems. It may also be used to monitor conditions affecting the renin-angiotensin system.
What Does a Result Mean?
Results are interpreted in the context of your overall health and medical history. Abnormal levels may suggest underlying kidney or endocrine disorders that require further evaluation.
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.
Clinical Significance: Renin activity helps identify whether your blood pressure is being controlled by the renin-angiotensin system. Low or high levels can indicate conditions like renal artery stenosis, adrenal disorders, or other metabolic imbalances that may need treatment.
Short name
Renin Activity
Frequently asked questions
Why was this test ordered for me?
What does a high or low renin activity level mean?
Do I need to prepare for 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