Aldosterone-Renin Ratio (ARR)

Aldosterone-renin ratio (ARR) is the most reliable method for screening for primary aldosteronism. Primary aldosteronism occurs when aldosterone production is inappropriately high in relation to the patient’s sodium status. The aldosterone to renin ratio test (ARR) is determined by measuring both aldosterone and renin levels.

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is defined as a group of disorders in which aldosterone production is inappropriately high, relatively autonomous, and not suppressible by sodium loading. This inappropriate production of aldosterone can result in cardiovascular damage, suppression of plasma renin, hypertension, sodium retention, and potassium excretion that can lead to hypokalemia. PA is commonly caused by an adrenal adenoma, by unilateral or bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, or, in rare cases, by the inherited condition of glucocorticoid-remediable aldosteronism (GRA).

The measurement of the aldosterone-renin ratio is performed by taking a blood sample which can be done:

• At Diagnostiki Athinon - By taking a blood sample in Diagnostiki Athinon. There is no need for prior fasting. Book your appointment in real time and purchase the test online

Patient preparation

Patients should maintain an unrestricted dietary salt intake prior to testing. Washout of all interfering antihypertensive medications may be considered in patients with mild hypertension. Consult your doctor.

The patient should not take drugs that markedly affect the ARR for at least four weeks prior to testing. These drugs include:

• Spironolactone, eplerenone, amiloride, and triamterene
• Potassium-wasting diuretics
• Products derived from licorice root (e.g., confectionary licorice, chewing tobacco)