Aldosterone in Urine

Test Overview

An aldosterone test measures the level of aldosterone (a hormone made by the adrenal glands), in the urine. Aldosterone helps regulate sodium and potassium levels in the body. This helps control blood pressure and the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the blood.

The kidney hormone renin normally stimulates the adrenal glands to release aldosterone. High levels of both renin and aldosterone are normally present when the body is trying to conserve fluid and salt (sodium). When a tumor is present, an aldosterone level will be high while a renin level will be low. Usually a renin activity test is done when the aldosterone level is measured.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: August 21, 2006
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Alan C. Dalkin, MD - Endocrinology
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