Short Name: ALD24
Sample required: Urine
Result Time: 5 Days
Aldosterone is a steroid hormone and the most potent mineralocorticoid produced by the adrenals. It causes sodium retention and potassium loss. In the kidney, aldosterone causes the transfer of sodium from the lumen of the distal tubule into the tubular cells in exchange of potassium and hydrogen. In other words, the overall effect of aldosterone is to increase reabsorption of ions and water in the kidney. Aldosterone secretion is regulated by renin-angiotensin system, and its levels vary with body position and salt intake. HIGH levels of aldosterone may indicate primary or secondary hyperaldosteronism from heart or kidney disease, Cushing syndrome, very low-sodium diet, Conns syndrome, or Bartter syndrome (rare). LOW levels may indicate Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism, very high-sodium diet, or Addisons disease (rare). Other related tests: Renin Activity, Plasma.