Test Update 724

Patient Preparation - Results used for primary aldosteronism may not be interpretable if the patient is being treated with spironolactone (Aldactone). Spironolactone should be discontinued for 4 to 6 weeks before testing

Caution: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARB) have the potential to impact angiotensin II levels in plasma. Patient should be on a normal sodium diet. It may be beneficial to have patient seated in a recumbent posture if possible for at least 30 minutes prior to collecting specimen. Steroids, estrogens, oral contraceptives, ACT medications, and diuretics will all affect angiotensin II levels as will posture along with sodium, potassium, and multivitamins. Results used for primary aldosteronism may not be interpretable if the patient is being treated with spironolactone (Aldactone). Spironolactone should be discontinued for 4 to 6 weeks before testing.

Collect: Draw blood in a chilled syringe from a patient in a seated position; place specimen in a chilled, lavender-top (EDTA) tube; and mix or draw blood directly into a chilled, lavender-top (EDTA) tube. Immediately after collection, place EDTA tube into an ice-water bath until thoroughly cooled. Refrigerate specimen during centrifugation and immediately transfer plasma to plastic vial. If a refrigerated centrifuge is unavailable, chill the centrifuge carriers. Centrifuge specimen, then promptly transfer plasma. Immediately freeze plasma.