Aldosterone

Description of Research Aldosterone

Aldosterone is a potent mineralocorticoid thats synthesis and release is controlled by the renin-angiotensin system. Aldosterone promotes sodium reabsorption in the distal tubules of
the kidneys and potassium secretion and sodium retention, thereby regulatingb circulating blood volume and pressure.

Clinical indications:

Prolonged overproduction and secretion of aldosterone leads to hypertension.
Measurement of serum aldosterone levels in combination with plasma renin levels can be used to
discriminate primary and wtral hyperaldosteronism. The measurement of aldosterone using inhibitory and stimulatory testson is used to further rdividualize primary hyperaldosteronism into two types:

• Primary hyperaldosteronism caused by adenoma of one or both adrenal glands
• Primary hyperaldosteronism caused by adrenal hyperplasia

When interpreting the resultsof a test of aldosterone levels, one should also take into account factors that affect its levels - chronic stress, salt intake, strenuous exercise, somes medications (including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, diuretics).