Test Catalog

Test

Code

E759

Name

ALDOSTERONE

Notes

Description

Also known as: E759, ALDOSTERONE, S, ALD
Orderable Code: E759
Test Contains (LOINC): Aldosterone Serum (1763-2)
Sample Type: Serum or Plasma
Preferred Container: Serum Separator Tube (SST)
Alternate Container: EDTA (Lavender Top) Tube or K2 EDTA (Pink Top) Tube
Sample Volume: 1.0 mL
Minimal Sample Volume: 0.5 mL (does not allow for repeat testing)
Client Transport Temperature: Refrigerated
Specimen Stability: Ambient: 8 hours; Refrigerated: 5 days; Frozen: 1 month
Unsuitable Specimen: Urine.
Grossly hemolyzed, icteric or lipemic specimens.
Frequency: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
Expected Turn Around: 2 – 3 Days
Responsible Dept: Reference Lab
Referral Lab: SRL
Referral Lab Code: E759
CPT: 82088
Methodology: Quantitative Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Mineralocorticoids regulate salt homeostasis and fluid volume by binding to mineralocorticoid receptors in the colon, salivary glands, and nephron of the kidney to promote sodium reabsorption and potassium and hydrogen ion excretion. Synthesized in the adrenal cortex, aldosterone is the most potent naturally occurring mineralocorticoid. Its production and secretion are primarily regulated by the renin-angiotensin system in response to renal perfusion and sodium concentration in the distal convoluted tubule. This system ultimately leads to the production of angiotensin II which stimulates aldosterone synthesis. The synergy of aldosterone and other physiological downstream effects of angiotensin II work to regulate blood volume and pressure.
Evaluation of aldosterone is intended for the diagnosis and treatment of primary hyperaldosteronism, hypertension caused by primary hyperaldosteronism, hypoaldosteronism, edematous states and other conditions of electrolyte imbalance. Primary hyperaldosteronism is characterized by excessive secretion of aldosterone in the presence of low renin concentrations or activity levels. This disorder leads to cardiovascular damage, suppression of plasma renin, hypertension, sodium retention and potassium excretion that may lead to hypokalemia if prolonged and severe. The major causes of hyperaldosteronism are adrenal adenoma and adrenal hyperplasia. Secondary hyperaldosteronism is caused by inappropriate activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis resulting in excessive production of aldosterone. This condition may be found in renovascular disease, salt depletion, potassium loading, cardiac failure with ascites, pregnancy, and Bartter syndrome. Hypoaldosteronism is a rare condition where low concentrations of aldosterone are found in the presence of high concentrations of plasma renin, often due to adrenal failure.
Ordering Recommendation: Aid in the diagnosis and treatment of primary and secondary aldosteronism.
Compliance Statement: FDA cleared or approved assay