An aldosterone blood test measures the level of aldosterone in a person’s blood. Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure by controlling the balance of sodium and potassium in the body.

The aldosterone blood test is typically ordered to help diagnose and monitor certain medical conditions, including primary aldosteronism (a condition where the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone), adrenal gland tumors, and hypertension (high blood pressure).

During the test, a small sample of blood is taken from a vein in the arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The normal range for aldosterone levels in the blood varies depending on the laboratory, but generally falls between 3 and 16 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).

Elevated aldosterone levels may indicate the presence of primary aldosteronism, an adrenal gland tumor, or another medical condition affecting the adrenal glands. Symptoms of primary aldosteronism can include high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and muscle weakness. Treatment for primary aldosteronism may involve medication to lower blood pressure and/or surgery to remove the affected adrenal gland.

Low aldosterone levels may indicate the presence of a medical condition affecting the adrenal glands, such as Addison’s disease. Symptoms of Addison’s disease can include fatigue, weakness, and weight loss. Treatment for Addison’s disease typically involves hormone replacement therapy to replace the missing aldosterone and other hormones produced by the adrenal glands.

It is important to note that the aldosterone blood test is only one component of a comprehensive evaluation of the adrenal glands and the endocrine system, and further testing may be required to diagnose or monitor certain medical conditions. A healthcare provider can interpret the results of an aldosterone blood test in the context of the individual’s medical history and other test results, and develop an appropriate treatment plan if necessary.