Aldosterone/Cortisol Ratio, Adrenal Vein Sampling, 7 Sites
Test Code
Clinical Significance
Aldosterone/Cortisol Ratio, Adrenal Vein Sampling, 7 Sites - Measurements of aldosterone/cortisol ratios in samples of adrenal venous blood, obtained by an experienced radiologist, is the "gold standard" test to distinguish between an adenoma or unilateral hyperplasia and bilateral hyperplasia. Unilateral disease is associated with a marked (usually greater than four-fold) increase in Aldosterone/Cortisol on the side of the tumor, whereas there is little difference between the two sides in patients with bilateral hyperplasia. AVS with Aldosterone/Cortisol measurement is indicated if imaging studies fail to unequivocally identify an adenoma or if the identified adenoma is <1 cm in size.
Test Resources
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Test Details
Cortisol, Total
Aldosterone/Cortisol Ratio
Methodology
Reference Range(s)
Preferred Specimen(s)
2 mL serum collected in each of seven red-top tubes (no gel)
Alternative Specimen(s)
Plasma collected in each of seven EDTA (lavender-top) tubes
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL (x7)
Collection Instructions
For each timed specimen submitted, each tube must be clearly marked with time drawn and the exact location of the sample collection. Submit all tubes with one test requisition.
Transport Container
Transport tube (x7)
Transport Temperature
Frozen
Specimen Stability
- Room temperature: 4 days
- Refrigerated: 7 days
- Frozen: 28 days
Reject Criteria
Moderate to gross hemolysis • Serum separator tubes (SST)
Setup Schedule
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 28 days