What is this test?
Aldosterone is an adrenal hormone that helps regulate sodium, potassium, fluids, and blood pressure.
Why might it be ordered?
- For difficult-to-control blood pressure or an unexplained abnormal potassium level.
- To evaluate the renin-aldosterone system, usually together with renin.
What sample is needed?
Venous blood was drawn for plasma according to laboratory protocol.
How should you prepare?
Body position, time of day, salt intake, potassium and many medications affect the result. Follow the individual protocol and do not change medications on your own. Tell the laboratory about all medicines, hormone treatments, vitamins and supplements you take. Do not stop or change treatment unless your clinician tells you to. Follow any instructions about fasting and the time of collection.
How should you understand the result?
Aldosterone is interpreted with renin and sometimes as an aldosterone-to-renin ratio. Preparation conditions and medicines are essential to the interpretation. Your result is interpreted using the reference interval on the laboratory report and in the context of your symptoms, medical history and other test findings.
Sources and editorial status
This patient-facing text is an editorial draft. It should be approved by a laboratory physician before official publication.