What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing high blood pressure that's hard to control with medication, especially if imaging scans showed a small or unclear spot on one of your adrenal glands. It helps pinpoint whether the problem is coming from one adrenal gland or both, which changes how the condition should be managed. This is a specialized procedure typically used after other tests suggest a hormone imbalance called primary aldosteronism.

What's included in this test?

This test compares hormone levels drawn directly from each adrenal gland's vein, rather than from a regular blood draw, because it gives a much more precise picture of which gland is causing the problem. Comparing aldosterone against cortisol on each side helps confirm the sample was taken correctly and shows whether one gland or both are overactive. This precision is important because it can mean the difference between treating with surgery versus medication.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, showing the aldosterone/cortisol ratio from each adrenal vein along with an explanation of what the numbers mean. If one side shows a much higher ratio (usually more than four times the other side), that points to a one-sided problem that may be treated differently than a two-sided one. The standard lab report can be downloaded directly from your account, and you can track results over time using the trends feature. Because this is a specialized diagnostic procedure, any concerning or unclear results should prompt you to seek follow-up care promptly.

How can I naturally support healthy adrenal and blood pressure function?

While this test itself requires a clinical procedure, some everyday habits can support healthy blood pressure and adrenal function overall. Reducing salt intake, staying active, managing stress through activities like walking or breathing exercises, and getting consistent sleep can all help. Limiting alcohol and caffeine may also ease strain on your adrenal glands and blood pressure over time.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days after the sampling procedure is completed. Because this test involves a specialized radiology procedure rather than a simple blood draw, processing takes a bit longer than standard lab work. You'll be notified as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is generally considered for people with confirmed or suspected primary aldosteronism whose imaging scans (like a CT scan) didn't clearly show which adrenal gland is the source, or showed a very small growth under 1 centimeter. It's often used before making a big treatment decision, such as surgery to remove an adrenal gland. If you've been told your blood pressure issues may be hormone-related, this test can help clarify the right next step.

What does a high aldosterone/cortisol ratio on one side mean?

A markedly higher ratio (usually more than four times higher) on one side compared to the other suggests that one adrenal gland is producing too much aldosterone on its own. This pattern, called unilateral disease, is often caused by a small benign tumor called an adenoma. In these cases, surgically removing the affected gland can sometimes resolve the blood pressure problem entirely.

What does it mean if both sides show similar ratios?

If the aldosterone/cortisol ratios are similar on both sides, this points to bilateral hyperplasia, meaning both adrenal glands are overactive rather than just one. This pattern is typically managed with medication rather than surgery, since removing both glands isn't a practical option. Your results will explain this comparison clearly so next steps can be discussed.

What should I do if my results are unclear or abnormal?

If your results show an unusual pattern or don't clearly point to one side, it may mean the sample wasn't fully successful or that further imaging is needed. Simple next steps include reviewing the report details in your account and considering a repeat procedure if recommended. If you experience symptoms like severe high blood pressure, chest pain, or dizziness, seek medical care right away.

How often should this test be repeated?

This is typically a one-time diagnostic procedure used to guide a specific treatment decision, not a test you'd repeat regularly. It's generally only redone if the first attempt didn't yield a clear or successful sample from both adrenal veins. Once a treatment path (surgery or medication) is chosen based on the results, ongoing monitoring usually shifts to routine blood pressure and hormone checks instead.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Adrenal Vein Sampling - Aldosterone/Cortisol Ratio Test

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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