Aldosterone
Paediatrics
Measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of primary
hyperaldosteronism, hypertension, oedematous states and other
conditions of electrolyte imbalance.
General information
Collection container: EDTA plasma (3.4 mL
Sarstedt pink top).
Type and volume of sample: 1.0 mL
whole blood is required, as a minimum volume. If renin is also
requested then two tubes are required.
Specimen transport/special precautions: The
tube should be thoroughly mixed before transport to the lab.
Separate and freeze plasma immediately. External labs: send
frozen plasma on dry ice.
Laboratory information
Method principle: Aldosterone concentration is
analysed on an automated instrument using a chemiluminescent
immunoassay.
Biological reference ranges:
| Age |
Aldosterone Concentration (pmol/L) |
| <1 month |
129-4856 |
| 1-12 months |
139-2498 |
| 1-2 years |
194-1499 |
| 2-10 years |
83-971 |
| 10-18 years |
56-611 |
Turnaround time: 1 month
Clinical information
Aldosterone secretion is stimulated primarily via the
renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). The production of
renin is stimulated when there is a reduction in the renal
perfusion pressure, reduction in plasma volume and plasma sodium
depletion. Renin cleaves angiotensinogen into angiotensin I which
ultimately leads to the production of angiotensin II via the
angiotensin converting enzyme. Angiotensin II acts on the vascular
system causing vasoconstriction as well as stimulating the adrenal
cortex to secrete aldosterone.
Aldosterone acts on the mineralocorticoid receptors within the
principal cells of the distal tubule to increase sodium and
chloride reabsorption and potassium and hydrogen secretion.
Aldosterone measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment
of primary hyperaldosteronism, hypertension, oedematous states and
other conditions of electrolyte imbalance.
Factors known to significantly affect the
results:
- Grossly haemolysed samples are unsuitable for analysis.
- Grossly lipaemic samples are unsuitable for analysis.
(Last reviewed 29th February 2016)
