Serum or Plasma Aldosterone Concentration (Mass Concentration)

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions affecting your blood pressure, such as primary aldosteroneism (a rare disorder where your adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone). It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure), adrenal tumors, or kidney problems that may influence hormone levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. If it’s a blood draw, you may have a small needle inserted into your arm, and you’ll feel a brief pinch. If it’s a urine sample, you’ll collect a sample over 24 hours, but no special diet or activity restrictions apply.

What the Results Mean

Results help doctors determine if your hormone levels are too high or too low. High levels might suggest conditions like aldosteronism, while low levels could indicate adrenal insufficiency or other hormonal imbalances. Your doctor will discuss these results in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or manage conditions like hypertension, adrenal adenomas, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia. It may also be part of evaluating patients with symptoms like unexplained high blood pressure, frequent urination, or fatigue.