Aldosterone-Plasma Renin Activity Test Cost & Procedure

Aldosterone is a hormone that regulates blood volume and pressure as well as maintaining proper sodium and potassium concentrations in the blood. Renin is an enzyme that regulates the synthesis of aldosterone. These tests check the amounts of renin and aldosterone in the blood as well as the amount of aldosterone in the urine.

The examinations are especially helpful in determining problems with the adrenal gland, one of the main causes of high blood pressure.

About the Test

Purpose of the test

Tests for aldosterone and renin are used to determine whether the adrenal glands are producing the right amount of aldosterone and to identify any potential excess or deficient reasons. The hormone can be detected in the blood or in a 24-hour urine sample, which calculates the daily aldosterone excretion rate. Always quantify renin in blood.

The primary aldosteronism, also known as Conn's syndrome, which causes high blood pressure, can be detected most effectively with these tests. Aldosterone production may be further assessed using stimulation and suppression tests if the test is positive.

The statuses of renin and aldosterone are elevated in the sunrise and fluctuate throughout the day. The position of the body, stress, and numerous prescribed medications all have an impact on them.

What does the test measure?

Aldosterone is a hormone that is important for conserving healthful statuses of sodium and potassium in the circulation as well as for controlling blood volume and anxiety. Renin is an enzyme that regulates the synthesis of aldosterone. These tests check the amounts of renin and aldosterone in the blood as well as the amount of aldosterone in the urine.

The adrenal glands, which are found on top of each kidney in their outer region, create aldosterone (called the adrenal cortex). The hormone encourages the kidneys to excrete potassium while retaining sodium (salt). The kidneys create renin, which regulates the hormone angiotensin's activation and prompts the adrenal glands to make aldosterone.

When the salt chloride concentration in the kidney's tubules drops or blood pressure falls, the kidneys produce renin. Blood protein angiotensinogen is broken down by renin to produce angiotensin I. It is then changed by a different enzyme into angiotensin II, which constricts blood vessels and promotes the synthesis of aldosterone.

Aldosterone overproduction (hyperadrenocorticism, more often known as aldosteronism) or underproduction can result from a variety of situations (hypoaldosteronism). Aldosterone abnormalities are frequently diagnosed by testing both renin and aldosterone together because of their strong ties.