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Serum Area Under the Curve (AUC) for a 24-Hour Aldosterone-Protein Complex

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

This test measures the total amount of aldosterone bound to protein over 24 hours in your blood. Aldosterone is a hormone that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess how your body processes aldosterone, which can be important for diagnosing conditions like primary aldosteronism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
98656-2
Short code
SNAP area AUC R LACN
Synonyms
SNAP area AUC R LACN
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
nerve-conduction
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 This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of high blood pressure, low potassium levels, or other signs of hormonal imbalances affecting your kidneys or blood pressure. It may also be used to evaluate patients with suspected aldosterone-related disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically required. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw, but this depends on your doctor’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re currently taking.

How the Test Works

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed to measure the total aldosterone-protein complex over a 24-hour period. This involves collecting blood at specific intervals or using a specialized method to track hormone levels over time.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to reference ranges that vary by lab and patient factors. Elevated levels may suggest conditions like primary aldosteronism, while lower levels could indicate other hormonal or kidney-related issues. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

24h Aldosterone-Protein AUC (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What does elevated aldosterone-protein AUC mean?
Elevated levels may indicate primary aldosteronism, a condition where your adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, leading to high blood pressure and low potassium levels. This can cause serious health problems if untreated.
What does a low aldosterone-protein AUC mean?
Low levels may suggest conditions like adrenal insufficiency, where your adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones, or other metabolic disorders affecting hormone balance. It’s important to discuss symptoms and other test results with your doctor.
How often should this test be repeated?
Your doctor will determine how often to repeat this test based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Follow-up may be needed if initial results suggest a potential condition requiring further evaluation.
  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